England have received a major boost ahead of the Ashes series next month, with Ben Stokes and Mark Wood reported to be close to full fitness. The duo, who have both been recovering from injuries, are expected to be ready for action when the first Test gets underway in Perth on 21 November. Their return could prove vital as England prepare to face an Australian side still grappling with fitness concerns surrounding captain Pat Cummins.
Both Stokes and Wood missed significant parts of the summer. Stokes was sidelined with a shoulder problem that kept him out of the fifth Test against India, while Wood underwent knee surgery in March and did not feature throughout the English season. However, recent training sessions at Loughborough have indicated strong progress, with both players bowling at full pace alongside teammate Brydon Carse.
Carse expressed excitement about their recovery, noting that the two seamers look near 100% and “raring to go.” Their presence could provide England with crucial experience and aggression, particularly given their familiarity with Australian conditions. For Carse himself, the upcoming series represents another opportunity to impress after previously performing well with the Kookaburra ball, taking 27 wickets in five Tests last winter.
Reflecting on his own form, Carse admitted that wickets were hard to come by during the India series but believes his bowling style is better suited to tours abroad. He also prefers the feel of the Kookaburra over the Dukes ball, finding it more comfortable to handle and better suited to his rhythm.
While Stokes and Wood continue their rehabilitation, Carse is currently part of England’s white-ball squad in New Zealand for a three-match T20 series and three ODIs. The tour will help fine-tune preparations for next year’s T20 World Cup in India and provide fringe players like Jacob Bethell with a platform to stake their claim for Test selection.
England’s batting line-up also faces some key decisions, particularly at No 3, where Ollie Pope’s place may come under pressure from the young and promising Bethell. Despite a mixed summer, Bethell’s confident performances in the ODIs have reignited hopes that he could be ready for the challenge if called upon. With competition heating up and key players returning to full fitness, England appear to be building momentum ahead of a highly anticipated Ashes showdown.
