England's Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Quiet Confidence for Ashes Opener
Wood has not played a Test since August 2024.
The English pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.
Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery for a knee issue this spring.
That tournament and India series which came before was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem that had kept him out since August 2024.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee, at times, when it seemed I was nearly fit, 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 opener of the series starts on 21 November 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, bowling well during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can make my case for the first Test," added Wood, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka over a year back.
"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, it had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward for that game."
"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."
Australia's Injury Worries
At the same time, Australia's concerns over the fitness of squad members has resulted in player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, beginning this weekend.
The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July due to a back injury in his back.
"Green is unavailable of the [India] series having experienced mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.
"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back to play in round three of domestic cricket to further prepare for the Ashes."
The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins October 28th.
