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England's fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the opening match of the Ashes series in Australia.

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and had an operation on a left knee injury in March.

The Champions Trophy and India series that preceded it marked his comeback from an elbow injury which sidelined him since August 2024.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee sometimes, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I got knocked back on several occasions, 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 first match of the series starts on 21 November at Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series in Australia in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well in the practice games and in the nets, and can put my hand up for the first Test," 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 I'm in a good position now where i'm hoping to kick on toward the match."

"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australian Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns over the fitness 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.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress in his back.

"Green is unavailable of the [India] series having experienced mild side discomfort at training this week," the cricket board stated.

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

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins on 28 October.