🔗 Share this article English Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series Opener The bowler has not played a Test since August 2024. England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the opening match of the Ashes series in Australia. The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery for a knee issue this spring. The Champions Trophy and tour of India which came before marked his comeback after an elbow problem that had kept him out since August 2024. "It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee, at times, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there." "I got knocked back 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 starts on 21 November in Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win in Australia in over a decade. "With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka over a year back. "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 where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful." Australian Injury Worries Meanwhile, Australia's concerns over the fitness of squad members have led to all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, which starts on Sunday. Australia already have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress 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 tracking to return to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes." Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins on 28 October.