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England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the opening match of the Ashes series in Australia.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan last winter and had an operation on a left knee injury in March.

The Champions Trophy and tour of India that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury that had kept him out since August 2024.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee sometimes, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but during the training camp it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."

The opener of the series starts on 21 November at Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well in the practice games and in net sessions, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now where i'm hoping to kick on toward the match."

"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australian Injury Worries

At the same time, worries for Australia over the fitness of players has resulted in player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, which starts on Sunday.

Australia already have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"Green is unavailable of the [India] series after suffering low-grade side soreness during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.

"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the series."

The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start on 28 October.