English Fast Bowler Mark Wood Expresses Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series First Test

The English pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the opening match of the Ashes series down under.

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

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

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

"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but in the tent [training camp] it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."

The opener of the Ashes begins November 21st at 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 in the practice games and in the nets, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka over a year back.

"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now where i'm hoping to kick on toward the match."

"I avoid making statements where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Injury Worries

Meanwhile, worries for Australia over the fitness of players has resulted in player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, beginning this weekend.

The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since July due to a back injury affecting his spine.

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

"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation 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 the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start October 28th.