English Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series Opener
The bowler has not played a Test since August 2024.
The English pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" of being fit for the opening match of the Ashes series down under.
The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan in February and had an operation for a knee issue this spring.
That tournament and India series that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury which sidelined him since August 2024.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee sometimes, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."
"I got knocked back on several occasions, but during the training camp progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."
The first match of the Ashes starts on 21 November at Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win in Australia in over a decade.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can make my case for the first Test," Wood continued, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"The rehab hasn't just been a smooth process, it had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now where i'm hoping to kick on toward the match."
"I avoid making statements where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australian Injury Worries
At the same time, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members have led to all-rounder 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's been absent since mid-year due to a back injury affecting his spine.
"Green is unavailable of the [India] series having experienced low-grade side soreness at training this week," Cricket Australia said.
"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to further prepare for the series."
Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start October 28th.