Mark Wood relishing being the game changer as England pursue Champions Trophy glory
The paceman is making a habit of delivering when skipper Eoin Morgan needs a wicket and is looking forward to facing Pakistan in the semi-finals
Mark Wood is revelling in the role of being the man England captain Eoin Morgan turns to when the hosts need a wicket at the Champions Trophy.
Wood’s one-day international best of four for 33 in England’s concluding group win over Australia, which saw them knock out their arch rivals, included the prize scalps of Aussie skipper Steven Smith, David Warner and Glenn Maxwell at Edgbaston on Saturday.
This tournament also saw him remove New Zealand’s Kane Williamson, one of the world’s best batsmen, with a brilliant delivery in unbeaten England’s win over the Black Caps in Cardiff.
“It’s a nice feeling to have the confidence of the captain,” said Wood ahead of England’s semi-final against Pakistan in Cardiff on Wednesday.
“I don’t know if it makes me try a little bit harder, but at the moment I seem to be getting some of the best players out. It’s a nice knack to have.”
The 27-year-old Durham quick, fit following persistent ankle trouble, said Morgan’s backing had been a huge confidence boost.