England's Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Quiet Confidence for Ashes Opener
The bowler has been absent from Test cricket for over a year.
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.
The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery for a knee issue this spring.
That tournament and tour of India which came before was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee sometimes, when it seemed that you're just about ready, 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 opener of the Ashes begins November 21st at Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series in Australia since 2010-2011.
"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well in the practice games and in net sessions, and can make my case for the first Test," Wood continued, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka over a year back.
"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it had its ups and downs, 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 claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place currently and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."
Australian Injury Worries
At the same time, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players have led to player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, which starts on Sunday.
The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since July due to a back injury affecting his spine.
"Green is unavailable of the [India] series having experienced low-grade side soreness at training this week," Cricket Australia said.
"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back for the third round of domestic cricket to further prepare for the Ashes."
The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start October 28th.
