Mark Wood could return for Third Ashes Test after battling through fitness issues

Mark Wood is in contention to be called into England’s Ashes squad ahead of the Third Test in Perth next month after making an encouraging start to the Lions tour of Australia.

The fast bowler missed out on selection for the original tour party after another summer of fitness issues, with the 27-year-old having not played for England since sustaining a heel injury during the Second Test against South Africa at Trent Bridge in July.

But Standard Sport understands Wood has impressed Lions head coach Andy Flower since arriving in Australia with the rest of the squad last week. Wood will be put through his paces in the nets over the next three days and will then step up his return in a three-day match against a Queensland XI at Brisbane’s Allan Border Oval starting next Monday.

If all goes well, Wood, who has played just 10 Tests since his debut against New Zealand in 2015, will be considered for a call-up to the senior squad ahead of the Third Ashes Test starting at the WACA on December 14. England play a two-day tour match in Perth before that which would give Wood a chance to stake his claim.