IND vs ENG: Mark Wood Drops a Big Hint on Comeback in India vs England Test Series
Mark Wood eyes return for fifth Test vs India at The Oval after knee injury; to prove fitness in County game
England’s fast bowler Mark Wood is eyeing a return for the fifth and final Test match of the ongoing series against India. The experienced pacer missed the first four Tests due to a knee injury but is now targeting the Oval Test, which starts on July 31.
Wood had suffered a ligament injury to his left knee during the 2025 Champions Trophy. He had to leave the field mid-match and later went through surgery in March. Doctors advised a four-month rest, which ruled him out of most of the India series.
However, Wood is now making steady progress. In a chat with BBC Test Match Special, he shared that he has started light bowling and hopes to be match-ready soon.
“The rehab is progressing well. I’ve begun bowling lightly, so I’m officially back on track,” Wood said.
“I’m still hopeful of playing a role in this series, especially to see some players I could face. My focus is mainly on the final Test. Anything before that might be a bit too soon.”
The fifth Test between England and India will be played at The Oval from July 31. Before that, Wood will test his fitness by playing for Durham in a County Championship game against Somerset, starting July 22.
If fully fit, Wood will be a major boost for England’s bowling attack in the last match of this important series.
