England's Fast Bowler Mark Wood Expresses Quiet Confidence for Ashes First Test

England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" about his fitness for the opening match of the Ashes series in Australia.

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan in February and had an operation for a knee issue this spring.

The Champions Trophy and tour of India which came before was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury which sidelined him since August 2024.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee, at times, when it seemed 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. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."

The opener of the series begins November 21st in Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series in Australia 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 versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"The rehab hasn't just been 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 never want to give an answer where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I feel assured currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm quietly confident."

Australian Injury Worries

At the same time, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members have led to player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, which starts on Sunday.

The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July because of lumbar bone stress in his back.

"Green is unavailable of the [India] series having experienced low-grade side soreness 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 the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes."

Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins on 28 October.