England fast bowler Wood retires from internationals

England fast bowler Mark Wood has announced his retirement from international cricket with immediate effect.

The 36-year-old, who is one of the fastest bowlers to ever play for England, has been blighted by injuries throughout his career.

The Durham paceman only returned to action in the first Ashes Test in Perth in November after 15 months out with an elbow injury followed by knee surgery.

However, he bowled just 11 overs before suffering swelling in the same left knee and subsequently flew home for treatment. He has not played for England since.

"Although this may not come as a surprise given the past year, it just feels like a natural time at the end of my contract," Wood said in a statement on social media.

"I've always tried to be resilient and come back from injury to prove people wrong and show everyone what I can do. Unfortunately, this time I lost the battle.

"On medical advice, Test cricket and 50-over cricket are not possible, so the England dream has slowly been ground out of me over the last year.

"Playing for England has been the greatest honour I could have ever wished for and a dream come true."