The highly anticipated India vs England Test series 2025 has encountered a significant setback for England, as their premier fast bowler, Mark Wood, is expected to miss the five-match Test series due to a knee injury sustained during the Champions Trophy. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed that Wood underwent knee surgery this week and will be out of action for at least four months.
Mark Wood’s Injury and Its Impact on England
Wood sustained the injury during England’s Champions Trophy match against Afghanistan. After bowling just eight overs, he was unable to continue, subsequently ruling him out of England’s final league match against South Africa. Given his crucial role in England’s bowling lineup, this development is a severe blow for the team ahead of their home series against India.
Surgery and Expected Recovery Timeline
Following his knee surgery, Wood is expected to remain sidelined until late July 2025. This means he will not be available for the India vs England Test series, which is scheduled to take place from June 20 to August 4, 2025. This series is a key component of the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle, making Wood’s absence even more impactful.
The ECB has issued a statement confirming Wood’s unavailability, stating, “Mark Wood has undergone a successful knee operation and is expected to return to competitive cricket in late July. He will continue his rehabilitation under the supervision of the England medical team.”
How Wood’s Absence Affects England’s Bowling Lineup
With the recent retirements of James Anderson and Stuart Broad, the England pace attack has already been undergoing a transition. Wood’s absence further exacerbates the situation, leaving England with a relatively inexperienced fast-bowling lineup for the crucial home series against India.
England still has promising fast bowlers such as Jofra Archer, Ollie Robinson, Gus Atkinson, and Matthew Potts, but none possess Wood’s experience and ability to generate express pace, which is often crucial in home conditions.
England’s Pace Bowling Options for IND vs ENG Test Series 2025
In the absence of Mark Wood, England will likely rely on the following bowlers:
- Jofra Archer – If fit, he remains England’s most lethal fast bowler.
- Ollie Robinson – Known for his consistent line and length, Robinson could lead the attack.
- Gus Atkinson – A promising young pacer who has shown glimpses of brilliance.
- Matthew Potts – Has performed well in domestic cricket and could be given a Test opportunity.
- Chris Woakes – An experienced all-rounder who excels in home conditions.
India’s Advantage: England’s Bowling Woes Could Benefit Visitors
India, on the other hand, will be well aware of England’s depleted pace attack. The Indian batting lineup, featuring Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant, will look to capitalize on England’s bowling struggles. A relatively inexperienced pace attack could allow India’s batters to dictate terms throughout the series.
India’s Test squad is expected to include a strong mix of experienced players and young talents, with bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Ravindra Jadeja leading the attack.
Key Factors Favoring India in the Series
- Weakened England Bowling Attack: With Wood missing and Archer’s fitness concerns, India may dominate England’s pace unit.
- Recent Indian Success in England: India has performed well in English conditions in recent years, including their 2-1 series lead before the rescheduled Test in 2022.
- Experienced Indian Batting Lineup: The presence of seasoned Test players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Cheteshwar Pujara adds to India’s advantage.
Mark Wood’s Past Performances Against India
Wood has played a crucial role in England’s Test matches against India in the past. During India’s 2021-22 tour of England, he played in just one Test match but managed to claim five wickets. Additionally, during England’s 2024 tour of India, Wood impressed with his four-wicket haul in the Rajkot Test.
His ability to generate extra bounce and pace has troubled Indian batters in the past, and his absence will be felt in England’s bowling attack during the 2025 Test series.
Mark Wood’s Comeback Plans and Long-Term Future
Despite this setback, Wood remains determined to make a strong comeback. In a statement released by the ECB, Wood expressed his disappointment about missing the India series but reaffirmed his commitment to return stronger:
“It is disappointing to be sidelined after representing England across all formats last year. However, I am optimistic about my recovery and look forward to returning to competitive cricket. I am eager to contribute to England’s success again.”
England will be hoping for Wood’s return before their next major international commitments, including the Ashes 2026 and the T20 World Cup 2026.
