English Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series Opener
The bowler has not played a Test for over a year.
The English fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.
Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery for a knee issue this spring.
The Champions Trophy and India series that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem which sidelined him since August 2024.
"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee sometimes, when you think that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."
"I got knocked back on several occasions, but during the training camp progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."
The first match of the series starts on 21 November in Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series on Australian soil in over a decade.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for the first Test," Wood continued, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward for that game."
"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."
Australia's Injury Worries
At the same time, Australia's concerns over the fitness of squad members have led to all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, beginning this weekend.
The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year due to a back injury in his back.
"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series having experienced mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.
"He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return to play in round three of domestic cricket to further prepare for the series."
The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins on 28 October.
