England's Fast Bowler Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for Ashes First Test

The English pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness 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 had an operation for a knee issue this spring.

That tournament and India series which came before was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee sometimes, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."

The first match of the Ashes starts on 21 November at Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can make my case for the first Test," added Wood, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"The rehab hasn't just been 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 claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australian Injury Worries

At the same time, Australia's concerns over the fitness of players has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, which starts on Sunday.

The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year due to a back injury in his back.

"Green is unavailable of 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 tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to further prepare for the series."

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start October 28th.