Just ahead of the crucial third Test of the Ashes, both Australia and England have suffered a major setback. Two frontline fast bowlers—one from each camp—have been ruled out of the remainder of the Ashes series due to injuries.

• England’s speedster: Mark Wood

• Australia’s strike bowler: Josh Hazlewood

Their absence is a huge blow for both teams, especially with the series entering a decisive phase.

Why Was Mark Wood Ruled Out?

England fast bowler Mark Wood has been ruled out of the Ashes due to a knee injury, which he picked up during the first Test in Perth.

According to official updates from England cricket team, Wood will return to England later this week to begin his rehabilitation under the supervision of the team’s medical staff.

Wood’s exit has made England’s problems even worse because:

• He is their fastest bowler

• Brings huge experience

• Known for breaking partnerships with raw pace

Interestingly, Wood played only one match in this Ashes series and went wicketless in the Perth Test, but his presence alone added fear to the Australian batting lineup.

The England Cricket Board shared an emotional message:
“Absolutely gutted for you, Woody. After working so hard to get back, we’re all with you.”

Josh Hazlewood Also Ruled Out of the Ashes

Australia have also been hit equally hard. Their premier fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is now officially ruled out of the series.

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald confirmed the update, stating that Hazlewood has suffered a fresh injury, which has forced him to miss not just the third Test—but the remainder of the Ashes.

Hazlewood had earlier picked up a hamstring injury during a Sheffield Shield match, and although he was expected to recover, the fresh setback has now ended his Ashes campaign.

This means Australia will now be without:

• Their most accurate pacer

• A bowler known for bounce, seam movement, and discipline

Massive Impact on the Ashes Series

With both Mark Wood and Josh Hazlewood out simultaneously, the balance of the Ashes has shifted dramatically:

• England lose their express pace weapon

• Australia lose their most reliable line-and-length bowler

• Both teams will now be forced to re-shuffle their pace attacks before the third Test

Why This Is Bad News Ahead of the 3rd Test

• The third Test is often a turning point in the Ashes

• With key bowlers missing, team combinations will change drastically

• Young and inexperienced bowlers may now get a chance under pressure

Conclusion

The simultaneous exit of Mark Wood and Josh Hazlewood is one of the biggest injury blows in recent Ashes history. With both sides losing their pace leaders, the third Test is now wide open—and unpredictable.