🔗 Share this article

England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" about his fitness for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan in February and had an operation for a knee issue in March.

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.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee, at times, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."

The opener of the series begins November 21st in Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win on Australian soil in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively in the practice games and in net sessions, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it had its ups and downs, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward for that game."

"I avoid making statements where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australian Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players has resulted in player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, which starts on Sunday.

The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year due to a back injury affecting his spine.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series having experienced low-grade side soreness at training this week," the cricket board stated.

"He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return to play in round three of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the series."

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