England's Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series Opener
Wood has not played a Test since August 2024.
England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.
Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery for a knee issue in March.
The Champions Trophy and India series that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee sometimes, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."
"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but during the training camp progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."
The first match of the Ashes starts on 21 November in Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series in Australia 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]," Wood continued, whose last Test outing 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 avoid making statements where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australia's Fitness Concerns
At the same time, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players have led to all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend.
The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year due to a back injury in his back.
"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series after suffering low-grade side soreness during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.
"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes."
Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start October 28th.
