đź”— Share this article England's Fast Bowler Mark Wood Expresses Reserved Optimism for Ashes First Test Wood has not played a Test since August 2024. The English fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the opening match 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. The Champions Trophy and India series that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months. "The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee, at times, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered." "I faced setbacks on several occasions, 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 first match of the Ashes begins November 21st at Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win on Australian soil since 2010-2011. "With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka over a year back. "My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it had its ups and downs, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward for that game." "I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident." Australia's Injury Worries Meanwhile, worries for Australia over the fitness of squad members have led to all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, which starts on Sunday. Australia already have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since July due to a back injury affecting his spine. "Green is unavailable of the [India] series after suffering mild side discomfort during recent practice," the cricket board stated. "He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return to play in round three of domestic cricket to further prepare for the Ashes." The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins October 28th.