English Fast Bowler Mark Wood Expresses Quiet Confidence for Ashes Opener
Wood has been absent from Test cricket since August 2024.
The English pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.
Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery for a knee issue in March.
That tournament and India series which came before was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury which sidelined him for many months.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee sometimes, when you think that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."
"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 the pace is getting up there."
The opener of the series begins November 21st in Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series on Australian soil in over a decade.
"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well in the practice games and in the nets, and can make my case for the first Test," 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 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 more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."
Australia's Fitness Concerns
Meanwhile, worries for Australia over the fitness of squad members have led to all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, beginning this weekend.
The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year due to a back injury affecting his spine.
"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series having experienced mild side discomfort at training this week," Cricket Australia said.
"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the series."
Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start on 28 October.
