🔗 Share this article English Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for Ashes Opener Wood has not played a Test since August 2024. The English pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" of being fit for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia. The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan in February and had an operation on a left knee injury this spring. That tournament and India series that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months. "It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee, at times, when you think that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered." "I got knocked back a couple of times, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. We've used the radar gun and my speed is increasing." The opener of the series begins November 21st at Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series in Australia since 2010-2011. "Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for the first Test," Wood continued, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago. "The rehab hasn't just been a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward for that game." "I never want to give an answer claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I feel assured currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful." Australian Injury Worries Meanwhile, Australia's concerns over the fitness of players have led to player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, which starts on Sunday. Australia already have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year 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," the cricket board stated. "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 the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start on 28 October.