England's Fast Bowler Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series First Test

The English fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit 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 had an operation on a left knee injury this spring.

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

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee sometimes, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but during the 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 aiming to win their initial series win 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 the first Test," added Wood, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka over a year back.

"The rehab hasn't just been a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but now I'm in a better place where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members has resulted in player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend.

Australia already have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played 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 during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.

"He will undergo a brief rehab stint 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.