England's Fast Bowler Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series First Test

England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.

Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and had an operation on a left knee injury in March.

The Champions Trophy and India series which came before marked his comeback from an elbow injury which sidelined him for many months.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee, at times, when you think that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."

"I got knocked back a couple of times, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. We've used the radar gun and the pace is getting up there."

The first match of the Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win in Australia since 2010-2011.

"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," added Wood, who last played a Test versus 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 and hope to push forward toward the match."

"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place currently and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australian Fitness Concerns

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns over the fitness 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.

The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July 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 to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the Ashes."

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins October 28th.