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

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery on a left knee injury in March.

That tournament and tour of India that preceded it marked his comeback from an elbow injury that had kept him out since August 2024.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee, at times, when you think 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 opener of the Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series in Australia in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, who last played a Test versus 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 for that game."

"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australia's Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns over the fitness of squad members has resulted in player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, which starts on Sunday.

The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July due to a back injury affecting his spine.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series after suffering mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.

"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the series."

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start on 28 October.