England fast bowler Mark Wood has been ruled out of all forms of cricket for the next four months after suffering damage to the ligament on his left knee.
He is set to have surgery this week and will be missing the five-match test series against India at home.
The 35-year-old fast bowler experienced increased stiffness and discomfort in his knee during the Champions Trophy game against Afghanistan in Lahore on February 26.
He was forced to leave the field after feeling discomfort in his left knee during his fourth over in the first powerplay.
“I’m gutted to be out for so long after representing England across all formats since the start of last year,” Wood said in a statement released. “However, I’m confident I’ll be back firing on all cylinders now that my knee has been sorted.”
He also expressed gratitude to those who have supported him during this time.
“I want to thank the surgeon, the doctors, staff, my England teammates and coaches for their support – and, of course, our fans. I can’t wait to return and contribute to what will be a huge 2025 for us as a team.”
ECB further said Wood will now work closely with the medical team on his rehabilitation and recovery. As a result, Wood will miss the start of the English summer and is targeting a return to full fitness by the end of July 2025.
The 25-year old star has also had knee problems before, undergoing surgery in 2019 and missing the T20I series against Pakistan last year due to a similar issue. However, he made a comeback for England’s white-ball series in India before the Champions Trophy.
It will be interesting to see if Mark Wood makes it to England’s five-match Ashes trip in Australia, set to happen later this year.
