Fast bowler Mark Wood is set to miss England’s highly anticipated Test series against India this summer following knee surgery.

The 35-year-old pacer suffered his latest setback last month during England’s disappointing Champions Trophy campaign in Pakistan. Returning from an elbow stress injury, Wood experienced discomfort during the loss to Afghanistan. Despite receiving treatment, he continued to bowl in visible pain, prompting concerns that he had worsened an ongoing issue. The England and Wales Cricket Board later confirmed the injury had persisted for over a year.

Wood’s eighth career operation revealed significant ligament damage in his left knee, ruling him out for at least four months.

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Although Wood is targeting a return by late July, the final match of England’s five-Test series against India begins on July 31 at The Oval, making his participation highly unlikely.

He will also miss six white-ball matches against the West Indies and a one-off Test against Zimbabwe in May.

“I’m gutted to be out for so long after playing for England across all formats since the start of last year,” Wood said. “But I’m confident I’ll be back at full strength now that my knee has been properly addressed.”

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Renowned for his express pace, reaching speeds of up to 97 mph (157 kph), Wood is considered an invaluable asset for England. His absence comes in a crucial year as the team looks to rebuild its struggling limited-overs side, challenge India, and reclaim the Ashes in Australia.

Source: With input from news agency