English Fast Bowler Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series First Test

England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" about his fitness for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and had an operation for a knee issue this spring.

The Champions Trophy and India series which came before was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem that had kept him out since August 2024.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee, at times, when you think that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."

"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. We've used the radar gun and the pace is getting up there."

The opener of the Ashes starts on 21 November at Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series on Australian soil in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for the first Test," added Wood, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"My recovery wasn't 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 for that game."

"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australian Fitness Concerns

Meanwhile, worries for Australia regarding the health of players have led to player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, beginning this weekend.

The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress in his back.

"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 tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to further prepare for the Ashes."

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