English Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series First Test

The English fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery on a left knee injury in March.

That tournament and tour of India that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem which sidelined him since August 2024.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee sometimes, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."

"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but during the training camp progress has been positive. We've used the radar gun and my speed is increasing."

The first match of the series starts on 21 November in Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for the first Test," added Wood, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, 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, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australian Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns over the fitness of squad members has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, which starts on Sunday.

The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress in his back.

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

"He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the series."

Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins October 28th.