England's Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Reserved Optimism for Ashes First Test
The bowler has been absent from Test cricket since August 2024.
England's 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 since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery on a left knee injury in March.
The Champions Trophy and tour of India which came before marked his comeback from an elbow injury which sidelined him since August 2024.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee, at times, when you think that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."
"I got knocked back on several occasions, but during the training camp progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."
The first match of the Ashes starts on 21 November in Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series on Australian soil in over a decade.
"Hopefully, I'm in form, 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 was against Sri Lanka over a year back.
"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, 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 claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."
Australian Injury Worries
At the same time, worries for Australia over the fitness of squad members has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, beginning this weekend.
Australia already have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year due to a back injury in his back.
"Green is unavailable for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.
"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return 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.
