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The English fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery for a knee issue this spring.

That tournament and India series which came before was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem that had kept him out since August 2024.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "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. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."

The opener of the series starts on 21 November at Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win 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 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 avoid making statements where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Injury Worries

At the same time, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players have led to player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since July due to a back injury affecting his spine.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series having experienced mild side discomfort at training this week," Cricket Australia said.

"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return to play in round three of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the Ashes."

Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start October 28th.