English Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series First Test
The bowler has not played a Test for over a year.
England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" of being fit for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.
The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery on a left knee injury this spring.
That tournament and tour of India which came before was the 35-year-old's return 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 was not just quite there."
"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but during the training camp it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."
The opener of the Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series in Australia since 2010-2011.
"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka over a year back.
"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward for that game."
"I avoid making statements where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australian Injury Worries
Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members have led to all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, which starts on Sunday.
Australia already have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since July because of lumbar bone stress in his back.
"Green is unavailable for the India series after suffering low-grade side soreness at training this week," the cricket board stated.
"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the series."
Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start on 28 October.
