England's Fast Bowler Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for Ashes First Test
Wood has not played a Test since August 2024.
The English pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.
Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery 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 for many months.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play 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] it's been going well. We've used the radar gun and my speed is increasing."
The opener of the series begins November 21st at Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win in Australia since 2010-2011.
"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well in the practice games and in the nets, and can make my case for the first Test," Wood continued, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka over a year back.
"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward for that game."
"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm quietly confident."
Australia's Injury Worries
Meanwhile, worries for Australia regarding the health of players has resulted in all-rounder 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 skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year due to a back injury in his back.
"Cameron Green has been ruled out for 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 for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the series."
The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins October 28th.