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

England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.

The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan last winter and had an operation on a left knee injury this spring.

The Champions Trophy and India series that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem that had kept him out for many months.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee, at times, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but in the tent [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 seeking victory in their initial series win in Australia in over a decade.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, 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 now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward for that game."

"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Fitness Concerns

At the same time, Australia's concerns over the fitness of players have led to all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, which starts on Sunday.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since July because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"Green is unavailable for the India series after suffering low-grade side soreness during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back to play in round three of domestic cricket to further prepare for the series."

Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start October 28th.