England's Fast Bowler Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series Opener

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.

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery on a left knee injury in March.

That tournament and tour of India that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee, at times, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I got knocked back a couple of times, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."

The opener of the series begins November 21st at Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively in the practice games and in the nets, and can put my hand up for the first Test," added Wood, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka over a year back.

"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, it had its ups and downs, but now I'm in a better place where i'm hoping to kick on toward the match."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, which starts on Sunday.

The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year due to a back injury in his back.

"Green is unavailable for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the Ashes."

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start October 28th.