English Fast Bowler Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series First Test

The English pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan last winter and had an operation on a left knee injury this spring.

The Champions Trophy and India series that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return 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 sometimes, when you think that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. 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 aiming to win their initial series win on Australian soil in over a decade.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"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 never want to give an answer claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Injury Worries

At the same time, worries for Australia regarding the health of players 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 concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series after suffering low-grade side soreness during recent practice," 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 Ashes."

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