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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series down under.

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan last winter and had an operation for a knee issue this spring.

That tournament and India series that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem that had kept him out since August 2024.

"It was a frustrating summer," 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 got knocked back a couple of times, but during the training camp it's been going well. We've used the radar gun and the pace is getting up there."

The opener of the series starts on 21 November in Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"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," Wood continued, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka over a year back.

"My recovery wasn't 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 where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I feel assured at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Fitness Concerns

At the same time, worries for Australia regarding the health of players has resulted in player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, which starts on Sunday.

Australia already have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since July due to a back injury affecting his spine.

"Green is unavailable of the [India] series after suffering mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.

"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the Ashes."

The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start October 28th.