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The English pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the opening match of the Ashes series down under.

Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and had an operation on a left knee injury this spring.

That tournament and tour of India which came before was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury that had kept him out since August 2024.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee sometimes, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I got knocked back a couple of times, 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 begins November 21st in Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well in the practice games and in the nets, and can make my case for the first Test," added Wood, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka over a year back.

"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, 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 claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place currently and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australia's Fitness Concerns

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns over the fitness of squad members has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, beginning this weekend.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress 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.

"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 Ashes."

Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins on 28 October.