In a major boost for England ahead of the 2025/26 Ashes series in Australia, head coach Brendon McCullum has confirmed that pace ace Mark Wood is on track to return fully fit and firing. After a long injury layoff, the 35-year-old is expected to be ready to unleash his trademark speed and hostility when the five-Test series begins in November.
Mark Wood’s Return: A Timely Boost for England
Wood has not featured in any form of cricket since the 2025 Champions Trophy, sidelined by a lingering knee injury. His last Test appearance came over a year ago, raising concerns over his availability for the Ashes. However, speaking to Sky Sports, McCullum offered a positive update.
“He’s progressing. We’ve taken things pretty carefully, and he’s had a couple of minor setbacks throughout,” McCullum explained.
“The work he’s put in, the constant rehab he’s had to do over his career, yet the thirst and enthusiasm to represent his country is undoubted.
We know when he’s at his best he terrifies opposition batters and can be a match-winner in a blink of an eye.
We’re very confident we’ll have him fit and ready for the Ashes, ready to release thunderbolts.”
Wood’s pace and aggression have always been a key weapon in England’s bowling arsenal, especially in Australian conditions where bounce and speed can be decisive. His return will likely bolster England’s chances of ending a long winless streak Down Under.
Ben Stokes Also on Track to Be Fit
Another major talking point for England is the fitness of captain Ben Stokes, who missed the final Test of the India series due to a shoulder injury. McCullum reassured fans that the all-rounder is well on his way to full recovery.
“Stokes is progressing well,” said the England coach.
“Everyone knows Stokes’ thirst for hard work and his enthusiasm to captain England. I anticipate that he’ll be fully fit and ready to go in that series.
He’s excited about what’s ahead.”
Stokes’ leadership and ability to perform in clutch moments will be critical as England prepare for one of their toughest tours in modern cricket.
The Ashes: A Chance to Make History
England haven’t won a single Test match in Australia in the last 15 years—a stat that underlines the scale of the challenge awaiting them. McCullum, however, sees it as a golden opportunity to do something special.
“We’ve got a united side and a team that can handle pressure and block out the outside noise,” he said.
“It doesn’t guarantee success, and we will be challenged, but it’s about how we respond when the pressure is at its peak.
What an opportunity that is—an unbelievable opportunity—and it’s going to be a cracking series.”
The first Test of the 2025/26 Ashes is scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth, followed by matches in traditional Australian venues. With Wood and Stokes on the comeback trail, England fans have renewed hope of witnessing an Ashes revival Down Under.
