England cop major blow as star ruled out of Ashes series

English fast bowler Mark Wood has been ruled out of the remainder of the Ashes tour following a knee injury he suffered during the first Test in Perth.

England Cricket have confirmed Wood will return home and will "work closely with the ECB medical team on his rehabilitation and recovery."

Matthew Fisher has been brought into the squad having been in Australia with the English Lions.

It comes on the same day Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood was also ruled out of the Ashes series after an Achilles injury he suffered on his recovery from a hamstring injury.

Wood took to Instagram to express his disappointment with being ruled out.

"Gutted to be out the remainder of the ashes. After extensive surgery and 7 long, hard months of work and rehab to get back into the test arena, my knee just hasnt held up," Wood said on Instagram.

"None of us expected this. I came here with high expectations about making a big impact. I'm desperately disappointed that despite yet more injections and intensive medical treatment, it has become clear that the flare up in my knee is worse than feared.

"I'm really sorry that has left me unable to perform as expected but it is not for want of trying.

"I want to thank everyone at home and away in Australia. The barmy army have been class as always and I really appreciate it.

"Whatever happens I will continue to push the limits to get back again. It has been a tough road these past few months but I remain determined to give it another proper go. I still believe we can turn things around. Never give in. Come on England."

The English Cricket Board released the following statement on Tuesday afternoon:

England and Durham seamer Mark Wood has been ruled out of the remainder of the Ashes tour of Australia following a recurrence of the left-knee injury he sustained during the first Test in Perth earlier this month.

Wood will return home later this week and will work closely with the ECB medical team on his rehabilitation and recovery.

Surrey seamer Matthew Fisher has been added to the senior squad and will link up with the group this week, having been in Australia with the Lions.