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The English pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" about his fitness for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.

The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan last winter and had an operation for a knee issue this spring.

That tournament and India series 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 sometimes, when you think that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but in the tent [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 in Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win in Australia since 2010-2011.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well in the practice games and in the nets, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"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 toward the match."

"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australia's Injury Worries

At the same time, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members have led to player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, beginning this weekend.

The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year due to a back injury 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 short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the series."

Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start October 28th.