England’s star fast bowler Mark Wood is set to make a comeback in the fourth Test of the upcoming series against India. Wood has been sidelined for four months following knee surgery after the Champions Trophy 2025, during which he managed just one wicket in two matches as England exited in the first round.
England selector Luke Wright recently shared an optimistic update on Wood’s recovery, noting that the bowler has started light training. Wright expects Wood to be fit by the fourth or fifth Test and emphasized the day-by-day monitoring of his progress.
“I think Woody’s now started bowling just lightly, to be honest. He’s just off a few paces, but that’s been a great sign. So, he’s on the road to recovery. I think he’s more long-term, if we can get him back, he might have an option for the fourth or fifth Test. But again, each day it’s ticking off each box and making sure he’s OK,” Wright told Sky Sports.
Meanwhile, fast bowler Jofra Archer is also recovering from a thumb injury sustained during the final stages of IPL. Consequently, he was not included in the squad for the first Test against India, starting June 20.
Wright also updated on Archer’s status, mentioning that Archer is playing second-team games for Sussex to aid his recovery and aims to be available for the second Test.
