England's Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series First Test
The bowler has been absent from Test cricket for over a year.
The English fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.
Wood has not played 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 which came before was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury that had kept him out since August 2024.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee, at times, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."
"I got knocked back a couple of times, but during the training camp it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."
The opener of the Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win on Australian soil since 2010-2011.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively in the practice games and in the nets, and can make my case for the first Test," Wood continued, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward toward the match."
"I avoid making statements where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australian Injury Worries
Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players has resulted in player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, which starts on Sunday.
Australia already have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since July due to a back injury in his back.
"Green is unavailable of the [India] series after suffering low-grade side soreness at training this week," Cricket Australia said.
"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes."
The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins October 28th.
