English Fast Bowler Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for Ashes Opener

England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" about his fitness for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan in February and had an operation on a left knee injury this spring.

That tournament and tour of India that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury which sidelined him for many months.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee sometimes, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I got knocked back on several occasions, but during the training camp it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."

The first match of the Ashes begins November 21st at Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win in Australia since 2010-2011.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."

"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place currently and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australian Fitness Concerns

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members has resulted in player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend.

Australia already have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year due to a back injury affecting his spine.

"Green is unavailable for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort at training this week," the cricket board stated.

"He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back for the third round of domestic cricket to further prepare for the Ashes."

Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins on 28 October.