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

The English 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 against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery on a left knee injury this spring.

That tournament and tour of India that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee, at times, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] it's been going well. We've used the radar gun and the pace is getting up there."

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

"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well in the practice games and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka over a year back.

"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 for that game."

"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australia's Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, which starts on Sunday.

Australia already 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 for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort at training this week," Cricket Australia said.

"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the series."

Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins October 28th.