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Mark Wood Aims to Stay Above 90mph in Ashes Year After Injury Comeback

January, 10, 2025-03:33

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Mark Wood Aims to Stay Above 90mph in Ashes Year After Injury Comeback

For elite fast bowlers, the 90mph mark is often a benchmark of achievement. However, Mark Wood has taken this standard to the next level, aiming to never drop below that threshold in his Ashes year, following a four-month injury lay-off. Despite turning 35, Wood remains a dominant force, consistently topping the speed charts.
“Everyone sees 90mph as the target, but I don’t want to dip below it,” Wood explains. “My average pace has been climbing year on year, and my control last summer was good. Now, I want to keep that high speed, not just at 90mph, but above it."

Wood’s determination is evident as he pushes himself to exceed expectations, revealing that just a few years ago, he didn’t think he could bowl any faster. "I'm giving it everything I've got," he adds, noting the toll it takes on his body, "You can probably see that from the number of times I fall over."

Last summer, Wood set a new standard for sustained pace, averaging an astonishing 91.2mph per delivery in the Test against the West Indies at Trent Bridge. This was the fastest average speed ever recorded by a bowler in a Test match on British soil, surpassing Brett Lee's previous record of 90.59mph from the 2005 Ashes.
Wood’s relentless efforts were instrumental in England’s success, helping to secure a 241-run victory over the Windies. He followed this up with a five-wicket haul at Edgbaston, earning his fourth man-of-the-match award in 37 Tests.

Unfortunately, after England's win over Sri Lanka in August, Wood’s promising form was halted by injury. A routine check-up on a long-standing elbow issue revealed a stress reaction in the joint, forcing him to take a break from the game. While younger bowlers like Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse made their mark in his absence, Wood dedicated himself to rehabilitation, focusing on fitness to rejoin England's Ashes squad.

During his recovery, Wood wasn’t allowed to use his right arm for weeks, nor could he lift his children, as he concentrated on cardio work. He even beat his personal best times in the 5km, 3km, and 2km distances. "When it’s freezing cold in the garage at 9pm, I remind myself: 'Who else is training at this time?'" Wood reflects. "I trick my mind into thinking the extra effort will make the difference and get me back in the team."

In addition to this, Wood worked on overcoming his long-term ankle and knee issues, doing weekly exercises prescribed by England's physiotherapist Steve Griffin. These exercises, which Wood humorously refers to as the "Griff session," involved unconventional movements like hopping, skipping, and low-level single-leg work in his local leisure center in Ashington.

Despite the challenges, Wood's commitment and determination ensure he is ready to give his all as England’s Ashes campaign approaches, aiming to maintain his high-speed legacy and continue making an impact on the field.