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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.

The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery for a knee issue in March.

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

"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee sometimes, when you think that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I got knocked back 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 Ashes begins November 21st at Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series on Australian soil in over a decade.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well in the practice games and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka over a year back.

"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, it had its ups and downs, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward for that game."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm quietly confident."

Australia's Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns over the fitness of players has resulted in player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, which starts on Sunday.

The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

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

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