Mark Wood Reflects on England's Ashes 'Shame' with Regret Over Personal Readiness and Team Performance

Mark Wood has reflected on England's dismal Ashes campaign with shame, particularly over his personal readiness and the team's collapse in the series opener in Perth. Despite battling a knee injury, Wood played in the first Test, which England lost dramatically after being in a strong position. Wood admitted his knee wasn't right and later suffered a hamstring issue, which he believes was a compensation mechanism for his knee. The fast bowler also discussed the intense scrutiny the team faced in Australia, including being followed by media and the criticism over the team's golf outings and a mid-tour holiday in Noosa. Wood, who is teetotal, commented on the team's drinking but emphasized personal choice. He also reflected on the team's attitude towards golf under the former captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum, suggesting the perception of excessive golfing might have been misleading but understood the public's negative view. Wood's reflections come as England looks to rebuild after a disappointing series.