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The English pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.

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

The Champions Trophy and tour of India which came before marked his comeback from an elbow injury that had kept him out since August 2024.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "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 the pace is getting up there."

The first match of the Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series in Australia since 2010-2011.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka over a year back.

"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward toward the match."

"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australian Fitness Concerns

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns over the fitness of squad members have led to player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, beginning this weekend.

The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"Green is unavailable for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort at training this week," the cricket board stated.

"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back to play in round three of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the series."

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