English Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Reserved Optimism for Ashes Opener
The bowler has been absent from Test cricket since August 2024.
England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the first Test of the Ashes series down under.
The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery on a left knee injury this spring.
The Champions Trophy and tour of India which came before was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee, at times, when you think I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."
"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 opener of the Ashes starts on 21 November at Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series in Australia since 2010-2011.
"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively in the practice games and in the nets, and can make my case for the first Test," Wood continued, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka over a year back.
"The rehab hasn't just been a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but now I'm in a better place where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."
"I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australia's Injury Worries
Meanwhile, worries for Australia over the fitness of squad members has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend.
Australia already have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July due to a back injury in his back.
"Green is unavailable for the India series after suffering low-grade side soreness during recent practice," the cricket board stated.
"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the series."
Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins October 28th.
