England's Fast Bowler Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series First Test
The bowler has been absent from Test cricket for over a year.
England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.
Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan in February and had an operation on a left knee injury in March.
That tournament and India series that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem which sidelined him since August 2024.
"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "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 got knocked back on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."
The opener of the series starts on 21 November at Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series in Australia since 2010-2011.
"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can make my case for the first Test," Wood continued, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, 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 avoid making statements claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."
Australia's Injury Worries
Meanwhile, worries for Australia regarding the health of players have led to all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, which starts on Sunday.
The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.
"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 expected to be back to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the series."
Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start October 28th.
