Olly Stone replaces injured Mark Wood in England XI for second Sri Lanka Test

NEW DELHI: Olly Stone, the Nottinghamshire seamer, has been selected to play for England in the second Test against Sri Lanka, marking his return to the national side after a three-year absence.

Stone's inclusion comes as a result of Mark Wood being sidelined for the rest of the series due to a thigh injury sustained during England's victory in the first Test at Old Trafford, where they won by five wickets.

Despite the presence of 20-year-old left-arm paceman Josh Hull, who was called up to the squad following Wood's injury, the selectors opted for Stone's experience, reported AFP.


Stone's journey back to the England team has been challenging, as he had to overcome various injuries, including a torn anterior cruciate ligament, which he suffered while celebrating a wicket.

"Unfortunately with the nature of being a bowler, you are going to pick up injuries here and there. It's been disappointing, stop-start throughout my career," said the 30-year-old.

"This year especially, I've tried to just not look too far ahead. I love playing the game and I just knew that if I go out there and produce those performances, this call might come."

England's pace bowling line-up is undergoing a transformation due to the retirement of seasoned players Stuart Broad and James Anderson. The team is actively seeking to revitalize their fast bowling options in the wake of these significant departures.

In addition to the loss of Broad and Anderson, England will also be without the services of captain Ben Stokes for the upcoming series. Stokes sustained a hamstring injury while participating in The Hundred tournament, further impacting the team's dynamics.

Amidst these changes, Stone is determined to fill the void left by Wood's absence. Throughout the summer, including England's 3-0 victory against the West Indies, Wood consistently delivered blistering pace. Stone aims to replicate that speed and provide the team with a formidable fast bowling option.

"It's been pretty frightening the way he's been bowling," added Stone.

"Hopefully, I can go out there and try and touch his speeds. He's obviously up there with the fastest in the world so I'm not sure if I'll match it but I'll give it a good shot."

The second Test of the three-match series begins at Lord's on Thursday.


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