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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" of being fit for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.

Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and had an operation for a knee issue in March.

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 it seemed that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."

The first match of the Ashes begins November 21st at Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well in the practice games and in the nets, and can make my case for the first Test," Wood continued, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka over a year back.

"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it had its ups and downs, 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 ready'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Fitness Concerns

Meanwhile, worries for Australia regarding the health of squad members have led to player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, beginning this weekend.

The Aussies also have concerns over the condition 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 mild side discomfort during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the series."

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins on 28 October.