England's Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series First Test
Wood has not played a Test for over a year.
England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.
The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan in February and had an operation for a knee issue this spring.
That tournament and tour of India which came before was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem that had kept him out since August 2024.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee sometimes, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."
"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but during the training camp progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."
The opener of the series begins November 21st at Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series in Australia in over a decade.
"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," Wood continued, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka over a year back.
"The rehab hasn't just been 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 avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australia's Fitness Concerns
At the same time, Australia's concerns regarding the health 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's been absent since July because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.
"Green is unavailable of the [India] series having experienced low-grade side soreness at training this week," the cricket board stated.
"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the Ashes."
Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins October 28th.
