English Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Quiet Confidence for Ashes First Test
Wood has not played a Test since August 2024.
England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.
Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan in February and had an operation for a knee issue in March.
That tournament and India series which came before marked his comeback from an elbow injury which sidelined him since August 2024.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee, at times, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."
"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but during the 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 Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win on Australian soil in over a decade.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively in the practice games and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for the first Test," added Wood, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka over a year back.
"The rehab hasn't just been 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 avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australian Injury Worries
At the same time, worries for Australia regarding the health of squad members 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 July due to a back injury in his back.
"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series having experienced low-grade side soreness during recent practice," the cricket board stated.
"He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes."
The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins October 28th.
