🔗 Share this article

England's fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series down under.

Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan last winter and had an operation for a knee issue this spring.

That tournament and India series 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 stated. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee sometimes, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] it's been going well. We've used the radar gun and my speed is increasing."

The first match of the Ashes starts on 21 November in Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well in the practice games and in the nets, and can put my hand up 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 had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward for that game."

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

Australian Fitness Concerns

At the same time, worries for Australia regarding the health of squad members has resulted in player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI 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 due to a back injury in his back.

"Green is unavailable for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort at training this week," Cricket Australia said.

"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation 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.