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The English fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and had an operation for a knee issue this spring.

That tournament and India series which came before marked his comeback from an elbow injury which sidelined him since August 2024.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee, at times, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but during the training camp progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."

The first match of the series starts on 21 November at Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win on Australian soil in over a decade.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively in the practice games and in net sessions, and can make my case for the first Test," Wood continued, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward toward the match."

"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Fitness Concerns

At the same time, Australia's concerns over the fitness of players have led to player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, beginning this weekend.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July because of lumbar bone stress in his back.

"Green is unavailable for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort at training this week," Cricket Australia said.

"He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes."

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start on 28 October.