England's Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series First Test

England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the opening match of the Ashes series down under.

The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan in February and had an operation for a knee issue in March.

The Champions Trophy and India series that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury which sidelined him for many months.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee sometimes, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. We've used the radar gun and my speed is increasing."

The first match of the Ashes starts on 21 November in Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"The rehab hasn't just been 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 never want to give an answer claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australia's Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members have led to player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, beginning this weekend.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July due to a back injury affecting his spine.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series having experienced low-grade side soreness at training this week," 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 Ashes."

Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins on 28 October.