English Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series Opener

England's fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" of being fit for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan last winter and had an operation on a left knee injury this spring.

The Champions Trophy and tour of India which came before was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury that had kept him out for many months.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee sometimes, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I got knocked back a couple of times, but during the 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 seeking victory in their first Test series in Australia in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka over a year back.

"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward toward the match."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australian Injury Worries

At the same time, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players has resulted in player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, which starts on Sunday.

The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since July due to a back injury affecting his spine.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series having experienced low-grade side soreness at training this week," the cricket board stated.

"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the series."

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