England's Fast Bowler Mark Wood Expresses Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series Opener

The English pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series down under.

The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan last winter and had an operation for a knee issue in March.

The Champions Trophy and India series that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury that had kept him out since August 2024.

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

"I got knocked back a couple of times, but during the training camp progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."

The opener of the series begins November 21st at Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series on Australian soil in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively 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 smooth process, it had its ups and downs, but now I'm in a better place where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."

"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australia's Fitness Concerns

At the same time, worries for Australia regarding the health of squad members 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 skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July due to a back injury affecting his spine.

"Green is unavailable for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return to play in round three of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the Ashes."

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