England's Fast Bowler Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series Opener

England's fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the opening match of the Ashes series in Australia.

Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and had an operation on a left knee injury in March.

The Champions Trophy and tour of India which came before was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury that had kept him out for many months.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee, at times, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I got knocked back on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."

The first match of the series starts on 21 November at Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively in the practice games and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward for that game."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place currently and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australia's Fitness Concerns

At the same time, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players have led to player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, which starts on Sunday.

The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since July because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series after suffering mild side discomfort at training this week," the cricket board stated.

"He will undergo 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 begins on 28 October.