Mark Wood, the quick bowler for England, getting ready for the second Ashes Test match in Brisbane. After a brutal opening to the series, he hopes to regain his footing. Wood had only returned to competitive action in July after having surgery on his patella tendon. He was on the field for the first match of the Ashes in Perth. Yet his personal resilience could not save England from an eight-wicket hammering at the hands of old rivals Australia.
In the first Test, Wood went wicketless, bowling economically in the first innings by conceding only 21 runs from eight overs. He bowled 18 overs in the second innings but wasn’t able to get any wickets. No wonder it was an experience – on and off the field – particularly special for Wood, as this match was his first game since February.
Below, Wood reflects on that match and the emotional burden it took. Here’s what he had to say on the For Love of Cricket podcast with former teammate Stuart Broad. He conceded that the 11-day break between games would pose an emotional test for his team.
“It’s going to hurt and it should hurt for a few days,” – Mark Wood
In an optimistic tone, Wood expressed confidence in England’s bowling attack, asserting that they must rise to the occasion against Australian batters in their next encounter. Speaking post-match, he reflected that the home team’s intense pursuit was an emotional response rather than a rapid change in play.
“I would say it’s more emotional, I wouldn’t say it was physically that difficult this game,” – Mark Wood
Wood also reaffirmed the desire for England to return stronger in defeat. Next up was the HUD Secretary, who echoed Biden’s sentiments that it’s time to match fire with fire. He noted that Australia’s victory would boost their confidence and that the English bowlers must be prepared to counteract that momentum.
“Ultimately we have to stick together because there’s the end goal, it’s not just this one game,” – Mark Wood
When asked, he stated that if he had to drive to Brisbane, he’d be doing that “just to keep my head straight.” This quote showed his desire and commitment to remaining professional and ready-to-go with all the time off in between matches.
As England turn their focus to the second Test, Wood is determined that they can right the wrongs and get one over on their old adversaries. He understands that the Ashes series produces the most raw emotions. An especially disheartening loss can take a serious emotional toll on the players.
“When we were back out on the field I think because the game had gone through such a quick period of bowl-bat-bowl, you’re never actually switching off,” – Mark Wood
I’d encourage any athlete to read those musings because Wood provides great perspective on the athlete’s mind. With his teammates, he’s preparing for an Ashes series–deciding test match this week, having survived a physically and emotionally taxing period.
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