🔗 Share this article

England's fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery for a knee issue in March.

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

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee sometimes, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I got knocked back on several occasions, but during the training camp progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."

The first match of the Ashes starts on 21 November in Perth, with England seeking victory in 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 put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, it had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward toward the match."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australia's Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns over the fitness of players has resulted in all-rounder 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 for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return to play in round three of domestic cricket to further prepare for the series."

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