English Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series Opener
The bowler has not played a Test since August 2024.
The English pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" 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 had an operation for a knee issue 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 stated. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee sometimes, when it seemed 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 opener of the series begins November 21st in Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series in Australia since 2010-2011.
"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively in the practice games and in net sessions, 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 and hope to push forward toward the match."
"I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."
Australia's Fitness Concerns
At the same time, worries for Australia 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 with India, which starts on Sunday.
The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since July because of lumbar bone stress in his back.
"Green is unavailable of the [India] series after suffering mild side discomfort at training this week," the cricket board stated.
"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the Ashes."
Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start on 28 October.
