England's Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series First Test
The bowler has been absent from Test cricket since August 2024.
England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the opening match of the Ashes series in Australia.
Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery for a knee issue this spring.
That tournament and tour of India which came before marked his comeback from an elbow injury that had kept him out since August 2024.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee, at times, when you think I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."
"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but during the training camp it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."
The opener of the Ashes starts on 21 November in Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series in Australia since 2010-2011.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively in the practice games and in the nets, and can make my case for the first Test," added Wood, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka over a year back.
"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it had its ups and downs, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward toward the match."
"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I feel assured at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australia's Fitness Concerns
At the same time, worries for Australia regarding the health of squad members have led to all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend.
The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year due to a back injury in his back.
"Green is unavailable of the [India] series having experienced mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.
"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to further prepare for the series."
The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins on 28 October.
