Mark Wood Recalls IPL 2026 Franchise Owner Offering Private Plane During Illness
Mark Wood recalls IPL 2026 owner offering private plane despite illness to play match.
England fast bowler Mark Wood has revealed a remarkable behind-the-scenes story from his time in the Indian Premier League (IPL), claiming that an IPL franchise owner once offered to send a private jet just to ensure he could play a match despite being seriously unwell. The incident highlights the extreme lengths franchises are sometimes willing to go to secure the availability of key players in high-stakes games.
Speaking on BBC’s Strategic Timeout podcast, Wood said he had fallen ill with a high fever during an IPL season and was barely able to get out of bed ahead of an upcoming match. Despite his condition, he received repeated calls from the franchise owner, who expressed concern but also insisted on exploring ways to make him available for selection.
According to Wood, the team management had already assigned multiple doctors to monitor his health closely, with medical staff regularly checking his vitals every half hour. He recalled that the situation escalated as the owner personally reached out to assess his condition and continued to push for his participation in the match.
Also Read: IPL 2026: Points Table Updated as Punjab Kings Stay on Top Even After GT Loss
Wood further claimed that the franchise owner proposed an extraordinary logistical solution—sending a private plane to transport him directly to the match venue, allowing him to play, and then arranging another private flight immediately afterward so he could return to rest and recover. The pacer said the offer was made in an attempt to minimise disruption to his recovery while still ensuring his availability for the game.
Despite the dramatic proposal, Wood admitted he seriously considered the offer and even sought advice from his father. However, he ultimately decided against playing, prioritising his health over the match. The England pacer emphasised that while the experience was surreal, it reflected the intense pressure and expectations that can exist within franchise cricket environments.
Wood has represented two IPL franchises during his career, including Chennai Super Kings in 2018 and Lucknow Super Giants in 2023. Across his stint with LSG, he picked up 11 wickets in just four appearances, showcasing his impact as a high-speed strike bowler when fully fit. The revelation has sparked widespread discussion about player workload, medical ethics, and the competitive intensity of franchise cricket, where teams often balance sporting ambition with player welfare in tightly scheduled tournaments like the IPL.
Also Read: IPL 2026: Gujarat Titans Bowl First, Claim Early Wickets Against Punjab Kings
