Ashes 2023: Delighted to get my team over the line – Mark Wood after match-winning performance

England gun fast bowler Mark Wood was delighted to get his team over the line at Leeds, Headingley after the hosts won the third Test by three wickets against Australia on Sunday. Wood, who was finally added to the team’s playing XI after regaining full fitness, was able to grab his chance with both hands.

The ace pacer returned with impressive figures of 5-34 in the first innings to help England skittle out Australia for 263 runs. Wood accounted for Usman Khawaja, Alex Carey, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Todd Murphy.

Furthermore, Wood played a fine cameo of 24 runs off just eight balls in the first innings and gave a crucial impetus to the team when they were under pressure. Wood then returned with figures of 2-66 in the second dig and also scored an unbeaten knock of 16 runs off just eight balls in the run-chase of 251 runs.

Wood was on the ‘Mark’ and he breathed down the neck of the Australian batters with his extra pace.

Mark Wood said in the post-match presentation, “Delighted to be here to stand as the Man of the Match. The lads will tell you there are sweaty palms. Was tough against some of the best bowlers in the world, it’s the first time I’ve got England over the line with the bat so I’m delighted. If I bat any higher, will get a nosebleed, so definitely not higher than 9.”

He added, “I felt in good rhythm. Tried to run in as hard as I can. Stokesy told me to bowl as fast as I could. Things still to work on going into the next game. I was pleased with my 24 off 8. Would be tough going into the next game. The support everywhere we go is amazing, but it’s always better in the north, isn’t it? Will see I how pull up but will do everything I can to be ready.”

Mark Wood added a lot of firepower to England’s fast bowling attack with his extra pace and he will look to carry the good show in the fourth Test match. Wood was able to reap fruits for his genuine pace and played a key role in England’s win.

Furthermore, Harry Brook played a crucial knock of 75 runs on the penultimate day of the Test match to help England chase down 251. The fourth Ashes Test will be played at Old Trafford from 19th July onwards.