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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.

Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan last winter and had an operation for a knee issue in March.

That tournament and tour of India which came before was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem which sidelined him since August 2024.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee sometimes, when it seemed 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] it's been going well. We've used the radar gun and my speed is increasing."

The first match of the Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win on Australian soil in over a decade.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well in the practice games and in the nets, and can put my hand up for the first Test," Wood continued, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka over a year back.

"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward for that game."

"I avoid making statements where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I feel assured currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Fitness Concerns

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, which starts on Sunday.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since July because of lumbar bone stress in his back.

"Green is unavailable of the [India] series having experienced mild side discomfort during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back to play in round three of domestic cricket to further prepare for the series."

Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start October 28th.