English Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series Opener
The bowler has not played a Test for over a year.
The English pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" about his fitness for the opening match of the Ashes series in Australia.
The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery for a knee issue this spring.
The Champions Trophy and India series which came before marked his comeback from an elbow injury which sidelined him since August 2024.
"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any cricket 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 my speed is increasing."
The opener of the Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win in Australia in over a decade.
"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward toward the match."
"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I feel assured at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australia's Injury Worries
Meanwhile, worries for Australia over the fitness of squad members have led to player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, beginning this weekend.
The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year due to a back injury affecting his spine.
"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.
"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the series."
Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start October 28th.