English Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series First Test
The bowler has been absent from Test cricket since August 2024.
England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" about his fitness for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.
The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan in February and had an operation on a left knee injury this spring.
That tournament and tour of India that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury that had kept him out since August 2024.
"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "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 faced setbacks a couple of times, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. We've used the radar gun and the pace is getting up there."
The opener of the Ashes starts on 21 November at Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win in Australia since 2010-2011.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively in the practice games and in net sessions, and can make my case for the first Test," Wood continued, who last played a Test 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 and hope to push forward toward the match."
"I avoid making statements where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australia's Injury Worries
Meanwhile, worries for Australia regarding the health of squad members have led to player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, beginning this weekend.
Australia already have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since July because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.
"Green is unavailable of the [India] series having experienced mild side discomfort during recent practice," the cricket board stated.
"He will undergo 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."
The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start October 28th.