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

The English fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan last winter and had an operation for a knee issue this spring.

That tournament and India series that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.

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

"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but during the training camp progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."

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

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"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 toward the match."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm quietly confident."

Australia's Injury Worries

At the same time, Australia's concerns over the fitness of players has resulted in player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend.

The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"Green is unavailable 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 to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes."

The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins on 28 October.