The Ashes 2025-26: Mark Wood ruled out of the Gabba test
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Mark Wood had returned to the England team during the Perth test.
England‘s rapid pacer Mark Wood will not feature in the playing XI for the second Ashes 2025-26 test at the Gabba. The primary reason for his non-inclusion is reported to be the team management’s decision to monitor his workload and keep him fit for a longer duration.
Before the first test in Perth, there were reports of Wood experiencing issues in his left hamstring, but he could make it to the playing XI in full fitness, boosting England’s bowling arsenal. It was expected from the beginning that the pacer would not be able to play all five test matches, and the visitors would be rotating him.
Wood’s performance in Perth
Mark Wood bowled more than 10 overs in the Perth test, which ended in two days. His pace was breaching the 150 km/h mark, indicating that the pacer was in sublime rhythm. His first spell in Perth with the likes of Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson was a menacing period for the Aussies.
Mark Wood could not take any wickets in the first test, but was effective in piling the pressure on the opposition, which yielded results for England in the first innings as they bowled Australia out for 132 runs after they crumbled for 172 runs in their first innings.
Josh Tongue to replace Mark Wood in England XI
This time, England have one of the best pace attacks they have ever had on a tour Down Under. The visitors have a battery of fast bowlers with varying skillsets who are capable of matching Australia’s dominance with the ball.
Mark Wood is set to be replaced by Josh Tongue in their XI for the Brisbane test. Tongue is one of the six frontline pacers in the England squad. He has that pace which is required to unsettle the Australians at their home. His extra height helps him extract more bounce compared to Matthew Potts, who could also be included in the playing XI.
Why Mark Wood has been ruled out of the second Ashes 2025-26 test?
England have decided to leave Mark Wood out of the playing XI to manage his workload.
Who will replace Mark Wood in England’s playing XI for the Gabba test?
Josh Tongue is all set to replace Mark Wood.
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Navtej is all about narrating stories of human endeavour shaped by sporting excellence, from 22 yards to lush green pitches and buzzing arenas. With a background in broadcasting, he has a keen eye for compelling narratives that keep readers hooked. He primarily covers football and cricket, capturing the magic of two of the world’s most beloved sports.