đź”— Share this article English Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series Opener Wood has been absent from Test cricket since August 2024. England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia. The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan last winter and had an operation on a left knee injury this spring. The Champions Trophy and India series that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury which sidelined him for many months. "The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee sometimes, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there." "I faced setbacks on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] it's been going well. We've used the radar gun and the pace is getting up there." The first match of the series starts on 21 November in Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series in Australia since 2010-2011. "Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well in the practice games and in the nets, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago. "My recovery wasn't a smooth process, 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 avoid making statements where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful." Australian Injury Worries Meanwhile, worries for Australia regarding the health of squad members has resulted in player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, beginning this weekend. The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year due to a back injury affecting his spine. "Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series after suffering low-grade side soreness during recent practice," 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 series." Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins on 28 October.