England's Fast Bowler Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series Opener
The bowler has been absent from Test cricket since August 2024.
The English fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.
Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan in February and had an operation for a knee issue this spring.
The Champions Trophy and India series which came before marked his comeback from an elbow injury that had kept him out since August 2024.
"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee, at times, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."
"I got knocked back a couple of times, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. 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 first Test series in Australia since 2010-2011.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well in the practice games and in net sessions, and can make my case for the first Test," added Wood, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."
"I avoid making statements where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."
Australian Fitness Concerns
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 with India, beginning this weekend.
Australia already have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress in his back.
"Green is unavailable of the [India] series after suffering low-grade side soreness during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.
"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes."
Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins October 28th.
