English Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Reserved Optimism for Ashes Opener
The bowler has been absent from Test cricket for over a year.
The English fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.
The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan in February and had an operation on a left knee injury this spring.
That tournament and India series which came before was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem which sidelined him since August 2024.
"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee, at times, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."
"I got knocked back on several occasions, but during the 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 aiming to win their first Test series in Australia in over a decade.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, 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 14 months ago.
"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it had its ups and downs, but now I'm in a better place where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."
"I avoid making statements where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australian Injury Worries
At the same time, worries for Australia over the fitness of squad members has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, which starts on Sunday.
The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since July because of lumbar bone stress in his back.
"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.
"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back for the third round of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the series."
Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start on 28 October.
