English Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Reserved Optimism for The Ashes Series First Test
Wood has not played a Test for over a year.
England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" about his fitness for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.
Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery on a left knee injury 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 for many months.
"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee sometimes, when you think that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."
"I got knocked back on several occasions, 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 Ashes begins November 21st at Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win on Australian soil since 2010-2011.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively in the practice games and in the nets, and can put my hand up for the first Test," added Wood, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"The rehab hasn't just been a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward for that game."
"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm quietly confident."
Australian Injury Worries
At the same time, worries for Australia regarding the health of squad members has resulted in 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 skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since July due to a back injury in his back.
"Green is unavailable of the [India] series having experienced mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.
"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 Ashes."
Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins October 28th.
