🔗 Share this article

England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the opening match of the Ashes series in Australia.

The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan last winter and had an operation on a left knee injury in March.

The Champions Trophy and tour of India that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury which sidelined him since August 2024.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee sometimes, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but during the training camp it's been going well. 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 aiming to win their initial series win on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well in the practice games and in the nets, and can put my hand up for the first Test," added Wood, who last played a Test versus 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 avoid making statements claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australian Injury Worries

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 skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress in his back.

"Green is unavailable for the India series after suffering low-grade side soreness during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.

"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes."

Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins on 28 October.