IPL 2023: Mark Wood Opines on His First IPL Stint

England and Lucknow Super Giants speedster Mark Wood added that 2018 wasn’t the best time for him to participate in the Indian Premier League as it came on the back of less preparation. However, this year, he hopes to repay the faith put in him by the Giants franchise.

However, Wood’s first IPL appearance came in 2018 with the Chennai Super Kings was a forgetful experience, bowling four wicketless overs for 49 runs as well. Meanwhile, he impressed everyone in his first outing with the figures of 4-0-14-5. Notably, his eight scalps are currently the most in the tournament.

While speaking to reporters in Lucknow, he shared that he did an injustice to himself by playing in the IPL underprepared. The veteran also underlined that he would have returned to the mega event last year if he had not suffered an unexpected elbow injury.

As quoted by ESPN Cricinfo, he said: “I don’t think I was really prepared for CSK at that time. I’d just come off the back of a Test match tour and I hadn’t prepared well. That was my own fault, really; I went into that game a bit underprepared and didn’t do myself justice. Coming back to the IPL, England have had such a big schedule, I’ve had injuries, time with my family – I’ve tried to factor all that in and it’s just never been a good time to come back. I would have come back last year but unfortunately I had elbow surgery.”

Mark Wood, who earned INR 7.5 crores in the auction, gave credit to KL Rahul and the management for making his role clear within the side. He added:

“I felt like I had a bit of unfinished business” – Mark Wood on playing in IPL

“I’m here this year and trying my best to contribute for Lucknow, trying to repay the faith that they’ve shown in me, sticking by me and picking me again. So far I’ve absolutely loved it: KL Rahul has been brilliant with me. The management have been excellent, keeping my role clear, what they expect… hopefully I can repay the faith that they’ve shown in me.”

While he didn’t give away too many in the first game, he conceded 49 runs in the second against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). He also took three wickets, including that of MS Dhoni, who smashed him for two sixes as well. However, he also revealed that the IPL was on his checklist and he wants to show he belongs here too.

“I felt like I had a bit of unfinished business, I guess, in terms of trying to come here and prove myself on a big stage. I’ve played for England in World Cup finals – both 50-over and T20 – but I hadn’t cracked the IPL, so this time, I’m trying my best to prove that I can mix it in the IPL with the best players,” Mark Wood concluded.

The Super Giants will next take on the SunRisers Hyderabad on Friday in Lucknow.