4 days ago
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Mark Wood emerged from a rigorous bowling session at the Perth Stadium to declare himself fit for England’s first Ashes Test on Friday.
Wood further allayed fears that the hamstring niggle he picked up last week was anything serious by roaring in for half an hour at maximum pace.
The 35-year-old has not played for nine months, following left knee surgery, and last featured in a Test in August 2024.
Although his left leg was heavily strapped, it did not hinder his ability to hit top speed against his Test colleagues, with wicketkeeper Jamie Smith saying: ‘He was absolutely rapid today. I can tell you that first hand.
‘He's definitely one to avoid on the netting list. He was near enough full tilt, so it's good signs for us.
Wood could be part of a five-man England pace attack on what is expected to be a pitch that encourages fast bowling.
Mark Wood has been hailed as 'absolutely rapid' at bowling in training ahead of the Ashes
Wood, 35, has not played for nine months but hit top speed against his Test colleagues
England head into the five-match series with a fully-fit bowling artillery, with captain Ben Stokes backing up Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse.
Fellow paceman Josh Tongue, meanwhile, backed Durham star Wood’s fitness.
‘If his body's all good and the management think he's good to go, I don't see why not,’ said Tongue.
England could name their team on Wednesday, as it has been their style under the captaincy of Stokes to do so two days out.
