English Fast Bowler Mark Wood Expresses Reserved Optimism for Ashes First Test

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

The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery on a left knee injury in March.

The Champions Trophy and India series that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury that had kept him out for many months.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee sometimes, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I got knocked back on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. We've used the radar gun and the pace is getting up there."

The first match of the series starts on 21 November at Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win on Australian soil in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in the nets, 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 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 avoid making statements where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm quietly confident."

Australian Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend.

The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress in his back.

"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 continue his preparation for the Ashes."

Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start on 28 October.