Cricket
England’s Ashes prep takes a blow as pace ace Mark Wood leaves the field with hamstring stiffness on Day 1 of the warm-up game
After bowling eight overs against the Lions, Wood reported tightness in his hamstring and was sent for precautionary scans in hospital
England planned to use Wood for eight overs on Day 1, but his early exit has now raised questions about their fast-bowling lineup for the first Test
Wood recently recovered from knee surgery after missing the India Tests. The same leg is now troubling him again worrying signs for England
The first Ashes Test begins next Friday. Even if scans are clear, England may play safe and rest Wood for the opener
England are hoping Wood’s injury isn’t serious, but the Ashes momentum could already be in trouble before the first ball is bowled