England fast bowler Mark Wood is confident that he will be fit and ready to unleash his raw pace in the last two Ashes Tests against Australia. Despite concerns about his workload, Wood is unfazed and determined to make an impact for his team.
Wood made an immediate impact in his first Test in seven months, reaching speeds of up to 155km/h in his opening spell. His performance provided England with the much-needed air speed that was lacking in the first two Tests. He took an impressive 5-34 in the first innings of the recent win, helping England reduce their series deficit to 2-1.
However, Wood has yet to prove himself as a consistent selection for the team. With only a 10-day gap between the fourth Test at Old Trafford and the series finale at The Oval, there are concerns about his ability to perform in both matches. But Wood remains confident and draws on his past experience of playing four Tests in a row during a tour of Australia.
I did four in Australia last time and three of them were in a row, Wood said. It’s a big ask, but one I’ve done before and I will lean on that experience to try to do it again. I will speak to the physio, but I imagine I will bowl once or twice, do a couple of gym sessions, maybe some running, but it won’t be too drastic. I have to let the body recover.
Wood is focused on taking care of his body and ensuring he is in top form for the upcoming matches. He highlights the importance of recovery and getting himself in a good space mentally.
The recent victory against Australia is one of the highlights of Wood’s career. He played a crucial role with both bat and ball, swinging the momentum in England’s favor. After his remarkable five-wicket haul in the first innings, he contributed 24 runs off eight balls to shift the match’s momentum. In the fourth innings, with 21 runs still required and three wickets in hand, Wood hit a crucial six off Pat Cummins and helped England secure the win.
It fills me with great pride to say I can do well against Australia. It’s challenging because they are a top, top side, Wood expressed. It’s one of the best feelings I’ve had. Look at facing Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc. One, it’s not easy. Two, it’s really intimidating. They’re bowling fast, they get good bounce, and more often than not, they come out on top. Luckily this time, it’s the one-out-of-100 I’ve managed to get through.
Wood’s determination and contribution to the team’s success make him an invaluable asset for England. His raw pace and ability to swing the ball can be game-changing, and England will be hoping he can maintain his fitness and continue to make an impact in the remaining Ashes Tests.
In conclusion, Mark Wood’s confidence in playing in the last two Ashes Tests is a positive sign for England. His performance in the recent Test match against Australia has shown his ability to make an immediate impact and provide the team with the much-needed air speed. Despite concerns about his workload, Wood is determined to prove himself as a consistent selection for England. His focus on recovery and mental preparation reflects his professionalism and commitment to performing at his best. With his raw pace and ability to swing the ball, Wood will be a key player for England in the remaining matches of the Ashes series.
