English Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series First Test
The bowler has not played a Test for over a year.
England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.
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.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee, at times, when you think that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."
"I got knocked back on several occasions, but during the training camp progress has been positive. We've used the radar gun and the pace is getting up there."
The first match of the Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series on Australian soil in over a decade.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for the first Test," Wood continued, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward toward the match."
"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australian Fitness Concerns
Meanwhile, worries for Australia regarding the health of squad members have led to all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend.
Australia already have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year due to a back injury affecting his spine.
"Green is unavailable for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.
"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the Ashes."
The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins on 28 October.
