England's Mark Wood sidelined for four months after knee surgery
What's the story
England's express speedster Mark Wood will miss the next four months of cricket after undergoing a left knee surgery.
The procedure was conducted in London after scans revealed medial ligament damage, sustained during England's ICC Champions Trophy group stage match against Afghanistan last month.
This injury will rule Wood out of the summer Test series against India, but he hopes to return by winter for the Ashes tour to Australia.
Recovery timeline
Wood's injury history and potential return
Wood's recovery from his latest injury isn't expected to coincide with the five-match Test series against India, starting June 20 at Headingley.
But if his rehabilitation goes smoothly, he could return for the 5th and final Test at Kia Oval, beginning July 31.
The England Cricket Board (ECB) is hopeful of Wood being fit for the upcoming Ashes tour to Australia in winter.
Player statement
Wood expresses confidence after surgery
After his surgery, Wood was disappointed but confident of his recovery.
"I'm gutted to be out for so long after representing England across all formats since the start of last year," he said.
"But I've got every confidence that I'll be back firing on all cylinders now that I've been able to sort my knee out."
He thanked the medical team and his teammates for their support during this challenging time.
Injury record
Eighth operation of his career
As per ESPNcricinfo, Wood underwent his eighth knee surgery and the second in just eight months.
His previous injury, an elbow stress fracture diagnosed last year in August, had sidelined him for the rest of 2024.
Despite these setbacks, Wood remains a key asset to England's fast-bowling line-up as they prepare for their winter tour to Australia.
Wood
Wood has been England's mainstay seamer
Wood was forced leave the field after suffering a suspected left knee injury during England's crucial ICC Champions Trophy match against Afghanistan in Lahore.
Although Wood returned to bowl in the match, his injury aggravated.
The English samer, who regularly clockes the 150kph mark, has taken 253 wickets from 145 international games at an average of 31.54. The tally includes 5 five-wicket hauls.