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The English fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" about his fitness for the opening match of the Ashes series down under.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery on a left knee injury in March.

The Champions Trophy and tour of India that preceded it marked his comeback from an elbow injury which sidelined him since August 2024.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee, at times, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."

"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but during the training camp it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."

The first match of the series begins November 21st at Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for the first Test," Wood continued, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka over a year back.

"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward for that game."

"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Fitness Concerns

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 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 low-grade side soreness during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back for the third round of domestic cricket to further prepare for the Ashes."

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