Mark Wood scored six wickets in his return to Test action, helping England win the second Test against Pakistan. Watch the third Test vs. Pakistan live in Karachi starting Saturday at 4.30am ET, 5am start.
England fast-bower Mark Wood admitted that he considered quitting Test cricket after a long injury layoff.
As England won 26 runs against Pakistan in the second Test, his decision to not abandon the game’s longest format was celebrated by his teammates and coaches.
Wood was out of Test matches since March after two elbow surgeries and a hip injury. He returned in time to take nine wickets in England’s T20 World Cup-winning campaign in Australia.
His first taste of life under the leadership of Ben Stokes or Brendon McCullum was the second Test in Multan.
“Yes. Wood replied, “Yes.
“At some point, my body will decide that it’s the right way to go.” I did not prepare for white-ball. I was prepared for all forms of cricket.
“I wanted to see all of this with Stokesy & Brendon, so I’m glad I stuck with it.”
Wood was victorious in Pakistan’s second innings. He also removed Mohammad Nawaz (45) and Saud Shakeel (94) in six balls. This left the hosts at 291-7 and looking down the barrel for defeat.
It was England’s first series victory in Pakistan since 2000-01. This follows their incredible win in the first Test.
Wood stated, “It’s strange, the lad that I grew up alongside,” and “Stokesy is now much more mature.” He speaks so well. He has always had a brilliant cricket brain. He’s so much more well-rounded than we were as children, thanks to the way that he presents himself, his conduct, and the messages he sends.
He was the alpha man who never gave up and would go after his goals. He still has all of that, but he also has other sides. He will wrap his arms around people and express himself clearly. I was surprised to find out that he didn’t have all the words in his dictionary. To be fair, he’s been world-class.”
