English Fast Bowler Mark Wood Reveals Quiet Confidence for Ashes First Test

England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.

Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery on a left knee injury this spring.

That tournament and tour of India that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury that had kept him out since August 2024.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "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 during the training camp progress has been positive. We've used the radar gun and my speed is increasing."

The first match of the Ashes begins November 21st at Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series on Australian soil in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well in the practice games and in the nets, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"The rehab hasn't just been a smooth process, it had its ups and downs, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward toward the match."

"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Injury Worries

At the same time, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players has resulted in player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, beginning this weekend.

The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year due to a back injury in his back.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series having experienced mild side discomfort at training this week," the cricket board stated.

"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the series."

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