England Add Will Jacks for Pink-Ball Ashes Test as Mark Wood Ruled Out

England have opted to reinforce their batting depth for the upcoming pink-ball Ashes Test in Brisbane, bringing in all-rounder Will Jacks to replace injured fast bowler Mark Wood. The day-night Test begins on December 4, with Australia leading the 2025 Ashes series after their dominant victory in Perth.

Wood suffered a knee injury ahead of the second Test, ruling him out of contention and prompting England to consider their options. Although Josh Tongue was seen as the likely replacement to maintain pace balance, the team management has chosen Jacks to strengthen the lower order and provide a spin option under the lights.

England fielded an all-pace attack in Perth, but the strategy backfired as Australia sealed the match inside two days, driven by Travis Head’s explosive 123 off 83 balls in the fourth innings. They also suffered two major batting collapses, posting 172 and 164 in their two innings despite bowling Australia out for just 132 in the first innings.

The inclusion of Will Jacks adds variety to England’s attack. The Surrey all-rounder, known for his impact in white-ball cricket, has played two Tests so far, including a memorable debut in Pakistan where he claimed a five-wicket haul. In 57 first-class matches, Jacks has scored 2,591 runs at an average of 34.54 and taken 49 wickets.

England have retained faith in opener Zak Crawley despite his lean run, while Jamie Smith continues as wicketkeeper. The rest of the XI remains unchanged under captain Ben Stokes, as England aim to level the series in Brisbane.

England Playing XI for the Brisbane Pink-Ball Test

Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer.