England's Fast Bowler Mark Wood Expresses Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series First Test
Wood has not played a Test for over a year.
England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test 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.
That tournament and India series that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.
"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee sometimes, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."
"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but during the training camp it's been going well. We've used the radar gun and my speed is increasing."
The opener of the Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win on Australian soil in over a decade.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well in the practice games and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for the first Test," added Wood, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"The rehab hasn't just been 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, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australia's Fitness Concerns
At the same time, worries for Australia regarding the health of squad members has resulted in player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, which starts on Sunday.
Australia already have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July because of lumbar bone stress in his back.
"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort at training this week," the cricket board stated.
"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the series."
Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins October 28th.
