🔗 Share this article English Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series First Test The bowler has been absent from Test cricket since August 2024. England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the opening match of the Ashes series in Australia. The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery on a left knee injury this spring. That tournament 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. "It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee sometimes, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there." "I faced setbacks a couple of times, but in the tent [training camp] it's been going well. We've used the radar gun and my speed is increasing." The first match of the Ashes starts on 21 November in Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series in Australia in over a decade. "Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively in the practice games and in the nets, and can make my case for the first Test," added Wood, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka over a year back. "My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it had its ups and downs, 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 ready'. I'm in a confident place currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful." Australian Injury Worries Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members have led to all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend. Australia already have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine. "Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort during recent practice," 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 continue his preparation for the series." Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins on 28 October.