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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan last winter and had an operation for a knee issue this spring.

That tournament and tour of India that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem that had kept him out since August 2024.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee, at times, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."

"I got knocked back on several occasions, but during the training camp progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."

The first match of the series begins November 21st at Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win in Australia in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well in the practice games and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for the first Test," added Wood, whose last Test outing was against 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 avoid making statements where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australian Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health 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.

The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since July because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series having experienced mild side discomfort at training this week," the cricket board stated.

"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes."

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins on 28 October.