England's Fast Bowler Mark Wood Reveals Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series First Test
Wood has been absent from Test cricket for over a year.
England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.
The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery for a knee issue in March.
That tournament and tour of India which came before was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury which sidelined him since August 2024.
"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee sometimes, when you think that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."
"I got knocked back a couple of times, but during the training camp progress has been positive. We've used the radar gun 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 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 I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward for that game."
"I avoid making statements where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australian Injury Worries
Meanwhile, worries for Australia over the fitness of squad members has resulted in player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, beginning this weekend.
Australia already have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year due to a back injury affecting his spine.
"Green is unavailable of the [India] series having experienced mild side discomfort at training this week," Cricket Australia said.
"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 is scheduled to start on 28 October.
