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The English pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" about his fitness for the opening match of the Ashes series down under.

Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss by 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 that had kept him out since August 2024.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee sometimes, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] it's been going well. We've used the radar gun and my speed is increasing."

The opener of the Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series in Australia since 2010-2011.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for the first Test," Wood continued, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka over a year back.

"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, but now I'm in a better place 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 at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Injury Worries

At the same time, worries for Australia regarding the health of players has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress in his back.

"Green is unavailable of the [India] series having experienced low-grade side soreness at training this week," the cricket board stated.

"He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the Ashes."

Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins October 28th.