England suffer major setback ahead of second Ashes Test

BRISBANE: England’s fast bowling attack has taken a significant blow ahead of the second Ashes Test, with Mark Wood confirmed to be sidelined for the upcoming match in Brisbane. The decision comes as part of the team’s strategy to manage Wood’s fitness for the remainder of the series.

Wood, who made a much-anticipated return to international cricket in the first Ashes Test in Perth after a nine-month layoff, has been struggling with fitness issues. The 36-year-old fast bowler, who underwent knee surgery earlier this year, last played a Test match against Sri Lanka at Old Trafford in August 2024. His return to action in Perth was marred by ongoing hamstring problems, which have prompted the England management to take a cautious approach moving forward.

In an interview prior to the Perth Test, Wood had admitted that he wasn’t physically ready to play all five matches of the Ashes series. His exclusion from the second Test highlights the challenges England face in maintaining a balanced and fit squad as they look to contend with the demands of a high-stakes series in Australia.

While the decision to rest Wood is a precautionary measure, it’s a significant setback for England, who will now need to adjust their bowling lineup as they look to level the series in Brisbane.

AUSTRALIA CONTINUES WITH FIRST TEST SQUAD

Meanwhile, Australia has opted for stability ahead of the second day-night Ashes Test in Brisbane, naming an unchanged 14-man squad as captain Pat Cummins continues his recovery from a lingering lower-back injury.

Cummins, who suffered the setback during the West Indies series four months ago, was ruled out of the opening Test and will again be unavailable for selection. Despite this, Cricket Australia confirmed he will travel with the team to Brisbane to resume light training and monitor his fitness progress.

Australia made a dominant start to the Ashes campaign with an emphatic eight-wicket victory inside two days, but their fast-bowling stocks remain stretched. Josh Hazlewood, also recovering from a hamstring issue, has missed selection for a second consecutive match.

Amid scrutiny over his recent form, opener Usman Khawaja has also retained his place in the squad and is expected to continue at the top of the order.

The second Test is set to begin on December 4, with Australia aiming to extend their early lead in the five-match series.