England may face an extended period without fast bowler Mark Wood due to an injury setback, following a strong performance in the Ashes. Joe Root’s impressive unbeaten century propelled England to a commanding position on the first day of the second Test match at The Gabba.
Root’s unbeaten 135, along with contributions from Zak Crawley (76) and Jofra Archer (32no), led England to a total of 325-9. Despite moments of success for the Aussies, the day belonged to Ben Stokes’ team.
However, concerns arose off the field as Wood, nursing a knee injury, may miss the upcoming Adelaide Test match after providing a discouraging update on his condition. Wood, who played in the first Test in Perth, expressed uncertainty about his return before Christmas.
The 35-year-old mentioned a potential comeback for the third Test in Adelaide but indicated a more realistic timeline for Melbourne or Sydney matches. Wood, plagued by injuries throughout his career, wore a knee brace on the first day in Brisbane.
Former England captain Michael Atherton highlighted Wood’s importance to the pace strategy in The Ashes, expressing doubts about his significant impact in the series. Wood’s absence led to spin-bowling allrounder Will Jacks replacing him in the line-up for the Brisbane Test.
In response to Root’s stellar performance, Mitchell Starc shone for Australia, claiming 6-71 with the pink ball. The Ashes action, starting on November 21, can be watched live on TNT Sports via discovery+ or Prime Video’s TNT Sports channel.
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