“Australia will not want Woody to play last two games”, says Ben Duckett.

The Ashes 2023 series is approaching an exhilarating conclusion as England staged a remarkable comeback, securing a three-wicket victory in the third Test to narrow the scoreline to 1-2. The two teams are now set to face each other in the fourth Test on Wednesday, July 19, at the Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester. In a significant change to their bowling attack, England opted to rest veteran James Anderson and brought in the pace of Mark Wood.

This decision proved to be a masterstroke as the 33-year-old speedster made a significant impact, claiming seven wickets and contributing crucial runs with the bat to secure the win for his team. Looking ahead to the upcoming Test, England opener Ben Duckett expressed his belief that Australia would be keen to prevent Mark Wood from featuring in the remaining matches of the series. Duckett also commended Wood for his impressive batting performance.

Duckett said “I also know for a fact Australia will not want Woody to play these last two games. It’s so weird; how does he bowl so fast? He’s not a big bloke, it’s just arm-speed, I guess. He’s so skiddy and always at you, so I’m very happy he’s on my team. And it’s not just with the ball, the way he took them on with the bat was gamechanging.”

Notably, Mark Wood was recognized as the Player of the Match in the third game for his exceptional all-round display. However, England now faces another selection quandary as seamer Ollie Robinson sustained an injury during the third Test and was unable to bowl a single over in the second innings.