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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the opening match of the Ashes series in Australia.

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

The Champions Trophy and tour of India which came before was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury which sidelined him since August 2024.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee sometimes, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."

"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 opener of the series begins November 21st in Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win on Australian soil in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well in the practice games and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for the first Test," added Wood, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka over a year back.

"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward for that game."

"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm quietly confident."

Australia's Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members have led to all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, beginning this weekend.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since July due to a back injury affecting his spine.

"Green is unavailable for the India series after suffering low-grade side soreness at training this week," Cricket Australia said.

"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the series."

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins October 28th.