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England's fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan last winter and had an operation on a left knee injury in March.

That tournament and tour of India which came before was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury that had kept him out since August 2024.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee, at times, when it seemed that you're just about ready, 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 series starts on 21 November at Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively in the practice games 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 straight curve, it had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward toward the match."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I feel assured currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australian Injury Worries

Meanwhile, worries for Australia over the fitness of squad members have led to player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, which starts on Sunday.

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

"Green is unavailable of the [India] series after suffering low-grade side soreness at training this week," Cricket Australia said.

"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back for the third round of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the series."

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