England's Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Reserved Optimism for Ashes Opener
The bowler has been absent from Test cricket since August 2024.
The English pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" about his fitness for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.
The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan last winter and had an operation for a knee issue in March.
The Champions Trophy and India series that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem which sidelined him since August 2024.
"It was a frustrating summer," 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 got knocked back a couple of times, 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 starts on 21 November at Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series on Australian soil since 2010-2011.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well in the practice games and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for the first Test," Wood continued, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka over a year back.
"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward toward the match."
"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australia's Fitness Concerns
At the same time, Australia's concerns over the fitness of players has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, which starts on Sunday.
Australia already have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.
"Green is unavailable for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.
"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the Ashes."
The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins on 28 October.
