🔗 Share this article

England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series down under.

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery for a knee issue in March.

The Champions Trophy and India series which came before was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury that had kept him out for many months.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee sometimes, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I faced setbacks a couple of times, 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 series starts on 21 November at Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series in Australia in over a decade.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka over a year back.

"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward for that game."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns over the fitness of players has resulted in player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, beginning this weekend.

The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year due to a back injury in his back.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the series."

Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins October 28th.