English Fast Bowler Mark Wood Expresses Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series Opener
Wood has been absent from Test cricket for over a year.
England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" 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 this spring.
The Champions Trophy and India series which came before was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.
"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee, at times, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."
"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but in the tent [training camp] it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."
The opener of the series starts on 21 November at Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series in Australia since 2010-2011.
"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively in the practice games and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."
"I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australian Injury Worries
Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members has resulted in player 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's been absent since July because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.
"Cameron Green has been ruled out of 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 the Sheffield Shield tournament begins on 28 October.
