England’s pace spearhead Mark Wood is gearing up for a crucial fitness test next month as he targets a spot in the squad for the upcoming Ashes series in Australia. After a lengthy recovery from a knee injury sustained during the ICC Champions Trophy earlier this year, Wood is expected to feature in Durham’s county fixtures in September—a move that could determine his Ashes fate.

The 35-year-old hasn’t played a Test since August last year and was on the brink of returning for England’s final home Test against India, but a flare-up during training forced another delay. Speaking on the Stick to Cricket podcast, Wood shared that his knee had to be drained after swelling up post a bowling session at Lord’s, prompting a cautious rehab approach.

“I couldn’t just keep bowling in nets for months—I’d go mad,” Wood joked, adding that he’s been carefully managed with the Ashes in mind.

England’s fast-bowling depth will be under scrutiny this winter, with Wood expected to join a pace unit featuring Gus Atkinson, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue, Brydon Carse, and potentially Chris Woakes—if he clears his own fitness hurdles.

Wood’s impact in the last Ashes series was undeniable, snaring 14 wickets in just three Tests. Now, he’s aiming to play at least one of Durham’s upcoming matches against Essex (Sept 8), Worcestershire (Sept 15), or Yorkshire (Sept 24) to prove his readiness.

Preparations for the Ashes include a specialist bowling camp in Loughborough, followed by an early arrival in Perth for acclimatization alongside fellow quicks.