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The English fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" about his fitness for the opening match of the Ashes series in Australia.

Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan in February and had an operation for a knee issue in March.

That tournament and India series which came before was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury which sidelined him since August 2024.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee sometimes, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."

The opener of the Ashes starts on 21 November in Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series 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 make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka over a year back.

"The rehab hasn't just been a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward toward the match."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Fitness Concerns

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members have led to all-rounder 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 due to a back injury in his back.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort at training this week," the cricket board stated.

"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return to play in round three of domestic cricket to further prepare for the series."

Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins on 28 October.