English Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Reserved Optimism for Ashes First Test
Wood has been absent from Test cricket since August 2024.
England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series down under.
The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery on a left knee injury in March.
That tournament and India series which came before 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 stated. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee sometimes, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."
"I got knocked back a couple of times, but in the tent [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 in Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series in Australia since 2010-2011.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward toward the match."
"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm quietly confident."
Australia's Fitness Concerns
Meanwhile, Australia's concerns over the fitness of players have led to player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, beginning this weekend.
Australia already have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year due to a back injury affecting his spine.
"Green is unavailable for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.
"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return to play in round three of domestic cricket to further prepare for the Ashes."
The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins on 28 October.
