English Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series Opener

The English pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness 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.

The Champions Trophy and tour of India that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee, at times, when you think that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."

"I got knocked back on several occasions, but in the tent [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 series begins November 21st in Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win in Australia in over a decade.

"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.

"The rehab hasn't just been 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, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place currently and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australia's Fitness Concerns

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns over the fitness of squad members have led to all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, which starts on Sunday.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series after suffering mild side discomfort during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the series."

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins October 28th.