🔗 Share this article England's Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series Opener Wood has not played a Test since August 2024. England's fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" about his fitness for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia. The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery for a knee issue in March. The Champions Trophy and India series that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury which sidelined him for many months. "It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee sometimes, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there." "I faced setbacks on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there." The opener of the series starts on 21 November at Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series on Australian soil since 2010-2011. "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, whose last Test outing versus 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 where i'm hoping to kick on for that game." "I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful." Australia's Injury Worries Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green making way for 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 mid-year because of lumbar bone stress in his back. "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 domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the series." Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins October 28th.