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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series down under.

The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan in February and had an operation for a knee issue in March.

The Champions Trophy and India series which came before marked his comeback after an elbow problem which sidelined him since August 2024.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee sometimes, when you think I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I got knocked back a couple of times, but in the tent [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 begins November 21st at Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win in Australia in over a decade.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively in the practice games and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for the first Test," Wood continued, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka over a year back.

"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 for that game."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australian Fitness Concerns

Meanwhile, worries for Australia over the fitness of players has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend.

Australia already have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"Green is unavailable for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.

"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the series."

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins on 28 October.