In a big blow to England's pace bowling lineup, quick bowler Mark Wood will miss the rest of 2024 due to a persisting elbow issue. This rules him out of the upcoming Test series against Pakistan and New Zealand.
Wood, who is capable of consistently hitting the 150 kph mark, has been nursing stiffness in his right elbow. The discomfort increased during the Tests against West Indies in July. Although he featured in the first match versus Sri Lanka last month, continuing discomfort and a separate thigh injury has sidelined him since.
Scans have now revealed that Wood has a bone stress injury in his elbow. He will continue working with the medical team on his rehabilitation. However, returning to full fitness is unlikely before early 2025. This means the lively pacer will miss England's two major overseas Test assignments remaining this year in Pakistan and New Zealand.
Wood's average opening over speed in Tests is a rapid 154.4 kph. Losing his firepower is a setback as England aim to strengthen their pace attack on spin-friendly Asian tracks and bouncy New Zealand wickets. The team will hope he makes a complete recovery in time for the 2025 home season and major events like the Champions Trophy.
Until then, others will need to step up in Wood's absence to terrorize batters with short-pitched deliveries at high pace. England will be counting on their quickest bowler's return to the longest format at the earliest. But for now, his priority is nursting his elbow back to full health.
