English Fast Bowler Mark Wood Expresses Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series First Test
Wood has not played a Test since August 2024.
The English fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" of being fit for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.
The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery on a left knee injury this spring.
That tournament and tour of India that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.
"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee sometimes, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."
"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but in the tent [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 series starts on 21 November in Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win on Australian soil since 2010-2011.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka over a year back.
"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, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australia's Injury Worries
Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players has resulted in player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, which starts on Sunday.
The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.
"Green is unavailable of the [India] series after suffering mild side discomfort at training this week," the cricket board stated.
"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes."
Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start October 28th.
