Mark Wood is hopeful of regaining fitness in time for England’s upcoming five-Test series against India this summer.
The fast bowler expressed frustration over persistent external commentary about the England squad’s interest in golf, acknowledging, however, that the team has sometimes undermined its own image with ill-judged public remarks.
A number of players have openly discussed their fondness for golf, a topic that has drawn criticism—particularly from former captain Kevin Pietersen—who suggested that England’s cricketers lack sufficient training commitment, a theme highlighted during this year’s white-ball series in India.
Remarks given by some squad members have contributed to this perception, prompting managing director Rob Key to state in March that the players ought to “stop talking rubbish.”
Appearing on the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast, Wood commented: “Sometimes we’ve been, how should I put it? Naive—in some cases, a bit foolish—with our comments to the media.”
“There are things said in the dressing room that should remain private. Yet occasionally, someone will make an offhand remark to the press that originated from a casual conversation among players. Suddenly, it’s portrayed as arrogance or a lack of humility. I’m not comfortable with that—we need to maintain a sense of respect.”
The 35-year-old paced ace declined to cite specific examples, adding: “This isn’t a criticism of my teammates.”
Pietersen’s criticisms on training followed England’s T20 series defeat (4-1) and ODI loss (3-0) in India. He told The Telegraph this month, “I stand by every word.”
Without naming Pietersen directly, Wood said: “What bothers me is the recurring ‘golf, golf, golf’ narrative.”
“Personally, I don’t play golf—it’s not for me—but I respect that some players enjoy it as their leisure activity. The idea that golf takes precedence over cricket is simply not accurate.”
“Our training sessions, particularly under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum, are highly demanding. Nobody takes representing England for granted. While I understand the frustrations around public perception, I can assure you everyone in the squad is deeply committed and works extremely hard.”
“We play to win for England. Suggestions that we don’t care are difficult to hear—they do not reflect our true feelings. Setbacks affect us deeply. We must improve communication so that the public receives a more accurate picture of our dedication.”
Wood, who underwent knee surgery in March and is expected to be sidelined for four months, remains optimistic about his return toward the end of England’s Test series against India, which finishes in late July.
“I hope to feature in a couple of games for Durham in July, before putting myself forward for England, but that’s still some way off,” he said.
“Rehabilitation is rarely straightforward—there are setbacks. My goal is to be available for one or two Tests at the end of the India series if my fitness allows. For now, it’s too soon to make any promises.”
England’s summer begins with a standalone Test against Zimbabwe at the end of May. The squad is set to be announced on Friday, with uncapped Essex seamer Sam Cook tipped for selection.
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