English Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for Ashes First Test

England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" about his fitness for the first Test of the Ashes series down under.

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery on a left knee injury this spring.

That tournament and tour of India which came before was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem that had kept him out since August 2024.

"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 wasn't fully recovered."

"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 Ashes begins November 21st at Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series in Australia since 2010-2011.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively in the practice games and in the nets, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now where i'm hoping to kick on toward the match."

"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australian Fitness Concerns

Meanwhile, worries for Australia regarding the health of players has resulted in player Cameron Green being replaced by 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.

"Green is unavailable for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort at training this week," Cricket Australia said.

"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back for the third round of domestic cricket to further prepare for the Ashes."

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins October 28th.