England's Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series Opener

England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery for a knee issue this spring.

That tournament and tour of India that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem which sidelined him 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 during the training camp it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."

The opener of the series starts on 21 November at Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can put my hand up for the first Test," Wood continued, who last played a Test 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 and hope to push forward toward the match."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Fitness Concerns

Meanwhile, worries for Australia over the fitness of squad members have led to player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, which starts on Sunday.

The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since July because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"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 expected to be back for the third round of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the Ashes."

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