English Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series First Test
Wood has not played a Test for over a year.
The English fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.
Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan in February and had an operation on a left knee injury in March.
The Champions Trophy and tour of India that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury that had kept him out since August 2024.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee sometimes, when you think that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."
"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but in the tent [training camp] it's been going well. 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 seeking victory in their initial series win on Australian soil in over a decade.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward toward the match."
"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australia's Injury Worries
At the same time, Australia's concerns over the fitness of players have led to all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, which starts on Sunday.
Australia already have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July due to a back injury in his back.
"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 brief rehab stint and is expected to be back for the third round of domestic cricket to further prepare for the series."
The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start on 28 October.
