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England's pace spearhead 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 against Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery on a left knee injury in March.

That tournament and tour of India that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem that had kept him out since August 2024.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee, at times, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but in the tent [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 series starts on 21 November at Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well in the practice games and in the nets, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now where i'm hoping to kick on toward the match."

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

Australia's Injury Worries

Meanwhile, worries for Australia over the fitness of squad members have led to player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend.

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

"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes."

The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start October 28th.