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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" about his fitness for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery for a knee issue in March.

That tournament and tour of India that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury which sidelined him since August 2024.

"It was a frustrating summer," 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 was not just quite there."

"I got knocked back a couple of times, but during the training camp it's been going well. We've used the radar gun and my speed is increasing."

The opener of the Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win on Australian soil in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can make my case for the first Test," Wood continued, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it had its ups and downs, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward for that game."

"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australia's Injury Worries

At the same time, Australia's concerns over the fitness of players have led to player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, which starts on Sunday.

The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since July because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series after suffering low-grade side soreness at training this week," the cricket board stated.

"He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back to play in round three of domestic cricket to further prepare for the series."

The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start October 28th.