English Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series Opener

England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.

Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan in February and had an operation for a knee issue this spring.

The Champions Trophy and India series which came before was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem which sidelined him since August 2024.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee sometimes, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I got knocked back a couple of times, but during the training camp progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."

The opener of the Ashes begins November 21st at Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win in Australia since 2010-2011.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively during warm-up matches 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.

"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, it had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now where i'm hoping to kick on toward the match."

"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australian Fitness Concerns

At the same time, worries for Australia over the fitness of players have led to 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 captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July due to a back injury in his back.

"Green is unavailable of the [India] series having experienced low-grade side soreness at training this week," the cricket board stated.

"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to further prepare for the series."

Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins October 28th.