🔗 Share this article

England's fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery for a knee issue this spring.

The Champions Trophy and tour of India that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem 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 wasn't fully recovered."

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

The first match of the series begins November 21st at Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well in the practice games and in the nets, and can make my case for the first Test," Wood continued, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"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 where i'm hoping to kick on toward the match."

"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, beginning this weekend.

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

"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort at training this week," Cricket Australia said.

"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the Ashes."

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