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Mark Wood Cleared for Ashes; Hazlewood Out Injured

11/16/2025

28 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

England fast bowler Mark Wood has been cleared of a hamstring injury ahead of the first Ashes Test in Perth on November 21.
He experienced stiffness after bowling in a warm-up match, but precautionary scans showed no serious issues.
Australia faces a setback as Josh Hazlewood is ruled out with a hamstring strain, joining captain Pat Cummins, leaving Australia with a reshuffled pace attack.

History

Historical Context

The Ashes series began in 1882 after Australia defeated England at The Oval, leading to a mock obituary declaring the death of English cricket. Captain Ivo Bligh vowed to reclaim the "Ashes" during the subsequent tour of Australia, resulting in England winning the 1882–83 series 2–1. This historic rivalry continues to influence cricket, with Australia currently holding the Ashes after the 2023 series.

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Story summary

England fast bowler Mark Wood has been cleared of a hamstring injury ahead of the first Ashes Test in Perth on November 21.
He experienced stiffness after bowling in a warm-up match, but precautionary scans showed no serious issues.
Australia faces a setback as Josh Hazlewood is ruled out with a hamstring strain, joining captain Pat Cummins, leaving Australia with a reshuffled pace attack.

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