English Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series Opener
Wood has not played a Test since August 2024.
England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" about his fitness for the first Test of the Ashes series down under.
Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery on a left knee injury this spring.
The Champions Trophy and India series which came before was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury 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 that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."
"I got knocked back on several occasions, but during the training camp progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."
The first match of the Ashes starts on 21 November in Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win on Australian soil 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," added Wood, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka over a year back.
"The rehab hasn't just been a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward for that game."
"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australia's Injury Worries
At the same time, Australia's concerns over the fitness of players has resulted in player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend.
Australia already have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year due to a back injury affecting his spine.
"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.
"He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to further prepare for the series."
The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start October 28th.
