England's Wood targets return to bowling action in 2026 summer

England's Mark Wood expects to resume bowling later in the 2026 summer after recovering from a knee injury.

Wood seeks comeback after knee surgery Pace bowler Mark Wood aims to resume bowling in the upcoming summer after his left knee surgery in March 2025. He returned for England's first Test against Australia in November but bowled just 11 overs in Perth before missing the rest of the series. The 36-year-old has faced recurring injuries, including an elbow issue before the knee problem, leaving him out of Test cricket for 15 months prior to the Ashes. ## Frustration over injury setback Wood admitted to the Strategic Timeout programme that he needs to take his recovery slowly to avoid ending his career prematurely. He stated, "I need to take it slow. Realistically I've got maybe one more chance at doing this right. If I rush it back, then it's not good, that could be it. I'm still trying to get back to bowling, hopefully later on in the summer." He also reflected on the challenges of rebuilding fitness over seven months only to be sidelined again. ## Focus on England return despite doubts Despite contemplating retirement scenarios last month, Wood remains determined to add to his 146 international caps. He emphasized his goal, saying, "You've got to keep your eye on the prize, which is ultimately for me trying to get to playing for England. That's my focus." He described his frustration over the lengthy rehabilitation process and his inability to regain his pre-injury bowling speed and form. ## England's pace bowling reshuffle Wood's absence adds to England's fast-bowling crisis as four key pacers—James Anderson, Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes, and Wood—may exit Test cricket with a combined 1,619 Test wickets. The home summer starts against New Zealand on 4 June, with Brydon Carse possibly missing out due to a broken wrist and Jofra Archer's return uncertain after the Indian Premier League. ## Squad options for summer series Josh Tongue and Gus Atkinson are expected to feature, while competition for spots remains tight. England's Ashes squad included Matthew Potts and Matthew Fisher, with Sonny Baker holding a central contract. Surrey's Tom Lawes, despite an England development deal, is injured, and Lancashire's Mitchell Stanley, despite limited first-class appearances, is highly regarded.