English Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for Ashes First Test
The bowler has been absent from Test cricket for over a year.
The English pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the opening match of the Ashes series down under.
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 India series which came before marked his comeback from an elbow injury which sidelined him since August 2024.
"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee sometimes, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."
"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but during the 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.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well in the practice games 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 over a year back.
"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward toward the match."
"I avoid making statements where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australia's Injury Worries
At the same time, worries for Australia regarding the health of players has resulted in player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, beginning this weekend.
The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year due to a back injury affecting his spine.
"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series after suffering mild side discomfort at training this week," the cricket board stated.
"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes."
The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start on 28 October.
