English Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series Opener
The bowler has been absent from Test cricket for over a year.
England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the first Test of the Ashes series down under.
The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan in February and had an operation on a left knee injury this spring.
That tournament and India series that preceded it marked his comeback from an elbow injury that had kept him out since August 2024.
"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee sometimes, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."
"I got knocked back a couple of times, but in the tent [training camp] it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."
The first match of the Ashes begins November 21st at Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win on Australian soil since 2010-2011.
"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"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 where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."
"I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australia's Fitness Concerns
Meanwhile, Australia's concerns over the fitness of squad members has resulted in player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, which starts on Sunday.
The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since July due to a back injury in his back.
"Green is unavailable for the India series having experienced low-grade side soreness during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.
"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to further prepare for the Ashes."
Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins on 28 October.
