English Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Reserved Optimism for Ashes First Test
Wood has not played a Test since August 2024.
The English fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series down under.
Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery for a knee issue this spring.
The Champions Trophy and tour of India which came before was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem that had kept him out for many months.
"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee, at times, when you think 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 Ashes starts on 21 November at Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win in Australia since 2010-2011.
"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can put my hand up for the first Test," Wood continued, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."
"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm quietly confident."
Australia's Fitness Concerns
Meanwhile, 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 with India, beginning this weekend.
The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.
"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.
"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back 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 on 28 October.