England's Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Reserved Optimism for Ashes Opener
The bowler has not played a Test since August 2024.
England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the opening match of the Ashes series in Australia.
Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan last winter and had an operation for a knee issue in March.
That tournament and tour of India that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem that had kept him out since August 2024.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee, at times, when you think 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 begins November 21st at Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series on Australian soil since 2010-2011.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can put my hand up for the first Test," added Wood, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, it had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now where i'm hoping to kick on toward the match."
"I avoid making statements where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm quietly confident."
Australia's Injury Worries
Meanwhile, worries for Australia over the fitness of squad members have led to all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, beginning this weekend.
The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.
"Green is unavailable for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort at training this week," the cricket board stated.
"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return to play in round three of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the series."
The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins October 28th.
