England's Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series Opener

England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery on a left knee injury this spring.

That tournament and tour of India which came before marked his comeback after an elbow problem that had kept him out since August 2024.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee, at times, when you think that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I got knocked back a couple of times, but during the training camp it's been going well. We've used the radar gun and the pace is getting up there."

The opener of the Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win in Australia in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well in the practice games and in the nets, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, but now I'm in a better place where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."

"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm quietly confident."

Australian Injury Worries

At the same time, worries for Australia regarding the health of players has resulted in player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, which starts on Sunday.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"Green is unavailable of the [India] series after suffering low-grade side soreness at training this week," the cricket board stated.

"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back for the third round of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the series."

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins on 28 October.