England fast bowler Mark Wood shrugged off the sting of Australian media criticism and said the team remains calm and focused as they gear up for the 2025‑26 Ashes series. Wood told Sky Sports that the headlines calling Ben Stokes’ “Bazball” style “dopey” are just part of the pre‑series theatre.
“Everything is part of it,” Wood said. “I haven’t paid much notice to the newspapers. The reception we’ve had in Perth has been great – the hotel staff, the locals, everyone’s friendly and excited. It’s a big build‑up.”
On the ground, the atmosphere stays upbeat. Wood added that the English crowd is already coming in and that “Barmy Army will be in full voice and behind us.” He acknowledged that Australia will be the favourite on home soil but stressed the squad’s quiet confidence.
“We’ve never won many games here,” Wood said. “The first game is huge, and as bowlers we know the first couple of wickets are crucial. If we get a good start we can put pressure on them.”
England have been doing everything they can to adapt to Aussie heat. Wood laughed that they even ran heaters in a tent back home to simulate the conditions. “It isn’t the same as real Australian heat, but it gets the mind ready.”
With a firm mindset and a plan to tackle the flash and swing of Australian pitches, the England camp looks ready for the challenge ahead.
Source: ianslive
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