LONDON (Reuters) -England test captain Ben Stokes has resumed training and fast bowler Mark Wood is in line to return to action next week in a major boost to England's preparations for the Ashes
England's Ashes Preparations Enhanced by Stokes and Wood's Return
England's Ashes Preparations
LONDON (Reuters) -England test captain Ben Stokes has resumed training and fast bowler Mark Wood is in line to return to action next week in a major boost to England's preparations for the Ashes series in Australia later this year.
Ben Stokes' Training Update
Stokes missed the fifth and final test against India at the Oval having hurt his shoulder in the previous match at Old Trafford in July.
Mark Wood's Return to Action
Durham head coach Ryan Campbell said the 34-year-old had started batting in the nets and that he had no doubts about the all-rounder's availability for the Ashes series beginning in Perth on Nov. 21.
Coaching Insights
"Over the last week, he's started to hit balls and had a really good session," Campbell told BBC Radio 5 Live.
Impact on Team Performance
"The batting side of things is going very well but the bowling will take a lot longer. He is being treated very steadily."
Campbell said Stokes must play all five tests in Australia if England are to reclaim the Ashes urn.
"The guy is so good because he makes your batting line-up deep and is a genuine force as a third or fourth seamer," he said. "He is going to bowl so many overs and can get you wickets."
Wood, who has not played since February, was on the verge of returning to competitive action following knee surgery, Campbell added.
"I've got my fingers crossed that Wood plays for us next week," Campbell said. "If that happens, it's not only great for Durham but also for England. He is extremely close to playing."
(Reporting by Amlan Chakraborty in New Delhi; Editing by Peter Rutherford)
