T20 World Cup: Will Wood, Malan be fit for final against Pakistan?
The two players sustained injuries before semi-final against India
MELBOURNE: England pacer Mark Wood and batter Dawid Malan are unlikely to be fit for the high-octane T20 World Cup 2022 final clash against Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday.
Wood, who missed the semi-final against India due to a right hip injury, is struggling to find fitness for Sunday's final.
He has been the tournament's fastest bowler and an essential member of England's attack during the group stage, taking nine wickets in four games.
"I tried my best to make the last game, but I couldn't bowl at the intensity and speeds required to play for England," Wood said.
"I couldn't get my hip going. Hopefully, if required, I can try and get it right for this game — I don't know if I'll be able to.
"The team did really well last game - if the captain desperately needs me and I'm fit enough, then I'll put my name in the hat like everyone else," he added while speaking on the BBC's Good Pace for Radio podcast.
Moreover, to add to the miseries of the English team, left-handed batter Malan, who missed the victory over India due to a groin injury, is also in the race with time to get fit for the grand finale.
In addition, Wood, who missed the entire summer due to an elbow injury, grabbed six wickets in two games as England defeated Pakistan 4-3 in the seven-match T20I series in September and October.
Given that he is part of England's Test squad for the three-match series in Pakistan, which begins on December 1, his injury is another cause for concern.
Considering Pakistan's low, sluggish pitches, his ability to bowl quickly is regarded as essential.
Pakistan will face England in the grand finale of the T20 World Cup at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday, November 13.
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