English Fast Bowler Mark Wood Reveals Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series First Test
Wood has been absent from Test cricket for over a year.
England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the opening match of the Ashes series in Australia.
Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan last winter and had an operation for a knee issue 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 since August 2024.
"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee sometimes, when you think that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."
"I faced setbacks 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 opener of the Ashes begins November 21st at Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win in Australia since 2010-2011.
"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively in the practice games and in the nets, and can make my case for the first Test," Wood continued, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka over a year back.
"My recovery wasn't 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 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 players has resulted in player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, which starts on Sunday.
Australia already have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since July because of lumbar bone stress in his back.
"Green is unavailable for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.
"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes."
The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins on 28 October.
