England's Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Quiet Confidence for Ashes First Test
Wood has been absent from Test cricket since August 2024.
The English fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.
The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan in February and had an operation on a left knee injury this spring.
That tournament and India series that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.
"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee sometimes, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."
"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."
The first match of the Ashes begins November 21st at Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series on Australian soil since 2010-2011.
"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, whose last Test outing was against 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 avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, 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 over the fitness of players has resulted in player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend.
The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.
"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort at training this week," the cricket board stated.
"He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return to play in round three of domestic cricket to further prepare for the Ashes."
The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins October 28th.