English Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Quiet Confidence for Ashes First Test
The bowler has not played a Test for over a year.
England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.
The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery on a left knee injury this spring.
The Champions Trophy and tour of India which came before marked his comeback after an elbow problem which sidelined him since August 2024.
"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee sometimes, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."
"I got knocked back a couple of times, but during the training camp progress has been positive. We've used the radar gun and the pace is getting up there."
The opener of the series begins November 21st at Perth, with England seeking victory in 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 the nets, and can put my hand up for the first Test," Wood continued, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka over a year back.
"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward for that game."
"I avoid making statements where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australian Fitness Concerns
Meanwhile, worries for Australia over the fitness of players has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green making way for 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 in his back.
"Green is unavailable of the [India] series after suffering low-grade side soreness during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.
"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to further prepare for the Ashes."
The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins on 28 October.
