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

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

That tournament and tour of India which came before marked his comeback after an elbow problem that had kept him out since August 2024.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee sometimes, when it seemed 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 my speed is increasing."

The opener of the series begins November 21st in Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"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.

"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 toward the match."

"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Injury Worries

At the same time, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players 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 captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

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

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

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