🔗 Share this article England's Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for Ashes Opener The bowler has been absent from Test cricket since August 2024. England's fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry down under. Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan last winter and had an operation on a left knee injury this spring. The Champions Trophy and India series 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 explained. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee, at times, when you think I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered." "I got knocked back a couple of times, but in the tent [training camp] it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there." The first match of the series begins November 21st at Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win in Australia in over a decade. "With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well in the practice games and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago. "The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward toward the match." "I avoid making statements where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful." Australian Injury Worries At the same time, Australia's concerns over the fitness of squad members has resulted in player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend. Australia already have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since July due to a back injury in his back. "Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series after suffering low-grade side soreness during recent practice," Cricket Australia said. "He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes." The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins October 28th.