‘Coolest thing ever, but…’ — Mark Wood reveals heartbreak after missing dream IPL chance

Mark Wood recalls a missed private jet opportunity as the “coolest thing” that almost happened during IPL 2023, leaving him disappointed.

Payal Singh
Payal Singh

3 mins read
Mark Wood reveals his private jet experience
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The Indian Premier League (IPL) is a dream tournament for many cricketers, even if they are from other countries. It provides a platform for many players and gives them a chance to put themselves out there, perform, and get noticed by the people as well as the board. Hence, many English players have shown interest in the tournament over the past.

While speaking on BBC's 'Strategic Timeout' podcast, Mark Wood revealed that he was sick and got a call from his franchise owner, who was willing to send the private jet to help the player. It was a great opportunity for Wood, and he acknowledged the fact that he got such a request from the owner but had to turn it down. The fast bowler has played for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the tournament.

England pacer opens up on what could have been a breakthrough IPL stint

Mark Wood revealed during the podcast that he was sick and couldn't move from the bed for three days straight, but the game was approaching. So the IPL owner offered him a private jet and requested him to play the match. When Wood mentioned the incident to his father, he was worried about his son's health but also was heartbroken that he missed the opportunity to travel via a private jet. 

"I wasn't very well after about five games, and the (next) game was in about three days' time. Every half an hour, the doctor would stay back, come to my room, check on my vitals," said Mark Wood.

"I remember one day the owner ringing me, 'How're you feeling? Ready to go?' and I said, 'Honestly, I've eaten and drunk nothing, I still can't get out of bed'. He went, 'We'll get you another doctor, we'll do this and that'. Next day, it's the owner again, 'How are you feeling?', and I said, 'Honestly, I'm still not good'. He then said, 'I'll send a private plane, you get in the plane, play the game. Then I'll get the plane straight back out and get you back to your bedside," revealed Wood.

Watch the video:

Read More: MI vs LSG Pitch Report IPL 2026 Match 47 – Batting or Bowling paradise at Today’s Venue?

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A passionate follower of international cricket since the mid-2010s, I enjoy watching the matches and writing about them. With five years of experience in storytelling, I love to give my input after a match. If not writing, you'll find me reading fictional books, sitting under a tree.
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