🔗 Share this article

The English fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and had an operation for a knee issue in March.

That tournament and India series that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem that had kept him out for many months.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee, at times, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I got knocked back a couple of times, but during the 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 begins November 21st in Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series on Australian soil in over a decade.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can make my case for the first Test," Wood continued, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward for that game."

"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Fitness Concerns

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members have led to all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, beginning this weekend.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year due to a back injury affecting his spine.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series after suffering low-grade side soreness 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 domestic cricket to further prepare for the series."

The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins October 28th.