English Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for Ashes Opener
Wood has not played a Test for over a year.
England's fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" about his fitness for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.
The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan last winter and had an operation on a left knee injury in March.
The Champions Trophy and tour of India that preceded it marked his comeback from an elbow injury that had kept him out for many months.
"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee, at times, when it seemed that you're just about ready, 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 my speed is increasing."
The first match of the series begins November 21st in Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series on Australian soil in over a decade.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can put my hand up for the first Test," added Wood, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka over a year back.
"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, 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 never want to give an answer claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm quietly confident."
Australian Injury Worries
At the same time, Australia's concerns over the fitness of squad members has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, which starts on Sunday.
Australia already have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year due to a back injury in his back.
"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series having experienced 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 further prepare for the series."
Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins on 28 October.