🔗 Share this article English Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Quiet Confidence for Ashes First Test The bowler has been absent from Test cricket for over a year. England's fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia. The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery for a knee issue in March. The Champions Trophy and India series which came before was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem that had kept him out since August 2024. "It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee sometimes, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there." "I got knocked back on several occasions, but during the training camp progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there." The opener of the Ashes starts on 21 November in Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win in Australia since 2010-2011. "With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can make my case for the first Test," added Wood, who last played a Test was against 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 toward the match." "I avoid making statements claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful." Australia's Injury Worries Meanwhile, worries for Australia over the fitness of squad members has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, which starts on Sunday. The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since July due to a back injury affecting his spine. "Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series after suffering 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 Ashes." Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins on 28 October.