🔗 Share this article England's Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series First Test Wood has been absent from Test cricket for over a year. The English pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the opening match of the Ashes series in Australia. The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan in February and had an operation for a knee issue in March. The Champions Trophy and tour of India that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem which sidelined him since August 2024. "It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee, at times, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there." "I got knocked back on several occasions, but during the training camp progress has been positive. We've used the radar gun and the pace is getting up there." The opener of the Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win in Australia since 2010-2011. "Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well in the practice games and in the nets, and can put my hand up for the first Test," Wood continued, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago. "My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward toward the match." "I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I feel assured currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm quietly confident." Australia's Injury Worries Meanwhile, Australia's concerns over the fitness of players has resulted in player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, beginning this weekend. Australia already have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress in his back. "Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series after suffering low-grade side soreness during recent practice," Cricket Australia said. "Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back to play in round three of domestic cricket to further prepare for the series." The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start on 28 October.