England's Fast Bowler Mark Wood Reveals Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series First Test
The bowler has not played a Test for over a year.
England's 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 in February and had an operation for a knee issue in March.
That tournament and tour of India that preceded it marked his comeback from an elbow injury which sidelined him since August 2024.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee sometimes, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."
"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."
The opener of the Ashes begins November 21st at Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win on Australian soil since 2010-2011.
"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can make my case for the first Test," added Wood, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it had its ups and downs, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward for that game."
"I avoid making statements claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."
Australian Injury Worries
At the same time, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, which starts on Sunday.
The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July due to a back injury affecting his spine.
"Green is unavailable of the [India] series having experienced low-grade side soreness during recent practice," the cricket board stated.
"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the Ashes."
The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins on 28 October.
