By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
England fast bowler Mark Wood has been ruled out of the remainder of Ashes following a recurrence of a left knee injury sustained during the first Test in Perth, with Matthew Fisher called up to the squad in his place.
Wood will return home later this week to work on his rehabilitation and recovery, the team said on Tuesday.
“Gutted to be out the remainder of the Ashes,” wrote Wood in a post on Instagram.
“After extensive surgery and months of work and rehab to get back into the Test arena, my knee just hasn’t held up.
“None of us expected this. I came here with high expectations about making a big impact. I’m desperately disappointed that despite yet more injections and intensive medical treatment it has become clear that the flare up in my knee is worse than feared.
“I’m really sorry that has left me unable to perform as expected but it is not for want of trying.”
However, he said he will attempt to make another comeback.
“Whatever happens I will continue to push the limits to get back again,” Wood added. “It has been a tough road these past few months but I remain determined to give it another proper go.
“I still believe we can turn things around. Never give in. Come on England.”
It is a huge blow to the tourists – who are already 2-0 down – and to Wood, whose international future is now in doubt.
One of the fastest bowlers to ever play for England, Wood has taken 119 wickets in 38 Tests since making his debut in 2015.
He was part of the team that won the Ashes in 2015, lifted the 2019 50-over World Cup and was in the England squad that won the T20 World Cup in 2022.