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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" of being fit for the opening match of the Ashes series down under.

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

That tournament and India series which came before marked his comeback after an elbow problem which sidelined him since August 2024.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee sometimes, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."

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

The first match of the Ashes begins November 21st at Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win in Australia in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for the first Test," 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 toward the match."

"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns over the fitness of squad members has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, which starts on Sunday.

The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"Green is unavailable for the India series after suffering low-grade side soreness during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to further prepare for the Ashes."

The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins October 28th.