England received a major boost ahead of the first Ashes Test in Perth as fast bowler Mark Wood was declared fit and included in the 12-man squad for the series opener on November 21 at the Optus Stadium.
Wood, who is central to England’s plans in Australia due to his express pace, caused concern during the warm-up match against the England Lions. After bowling eight overs, he left the field for precautionary scans following stiffness in his left hamstring. He did not return to the field, raising fears of another injury setback. However, medical assessment has cleared him, placing him firmly in contention for a spot in the playing XI.
England’s squad reflects a clear tactic: building a pace-heavy attack to exploit the bounce and carry expected at Optus Stadium. Jofra Archer, Wood, Gus Atkinson, and Brydon Carse headline the fast-bowling unit, supported by the overs of a fully fit Ben Stokes.
Shoaib Bashir remains the lone specialist spinner in the squad, leaving a selection dilemma for the team management. England may choose between including Bashir for control and variation or opting for an all-pace attack, relying on Joe Root’s part-time off-spin if conditions require it.
The decision will likely be finalised on the morning of the match, but the overall composition signals England’s intention: attack Australia with relentless pace in one of the quickest venues in world cricket.
