England's Fast Bowler Mark Wood Expresses Reserved Optimism for Ashes First Test
Wood has been absent from Test cricket for over a year.
England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the opening match of the Ashes series in Australia.
Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery for a knee issue this spring.
The Champions Trophy and tour of India which came before was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem which sidelined him since August 2024.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee, at times, when you think that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."
"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but during the training camp progress has been positive. We've used the radar gun and the pace is getting up there."
The first match of the series begins November 21st in Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win in Australia in over a decade.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively in the practice games and in the nets, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka over a year back.
"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 where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."
"I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australia's Fitness Concerns
Meanwhile, 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 against India, beginning this weekend.
The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of skipper 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 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 for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the series."
The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start October 28th.