Mark Wood has been named in England's 12-man squad for the Ashes opener in Perth and is set to lead a fearsome pace attack alongside Jofra Archer

England are prepared to unleash their full pace attack in Friday's Ashes opener in Perth , with Mark Wood confirmed fit for action. Wood has been included in a 12-man squad for the series opener and is the fastest among a five-strong arsenal of seamers which also includes Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse, Gus Atkinson and captain Ben Stokes.

Spinner Shoaib Bashir has been added as a precaution against a late change in conditions, but all signs suggest England will be focusing on speed. Despite undergoing elbow and knee surgery since his last Test appearance in August 2024, as well as a minor hamstring scare during last week's warm-up match, Wood i

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