English Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series Opener
Wood has been absent from Test cricket for over a year.
The English fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the opening match of the Ashes series down under.
Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery for a knee issue 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.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee, at times, 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 Ashes 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 during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can put my hand up for the first Test," 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 now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward toward the match."
"I avoid making statements where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australian Injury Worries
Meanwhile, Australia's concerns 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 captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress in his back.
"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series after suffering mild side discomfort during recent practice," the cricket board stated.
"He will undergo 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 Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins October 28th.
