English Paceman Mark Wood Reveals Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series Opener
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 first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.
The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery for a knee issue in March.
The Champions Trophy and India series that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem that had kept him out for many months.
"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 was not just quite there."
"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but during the training camp it's been going well. We've used the radar gun and the pace is getting up there."
The first match of the series begins November 21st 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 during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, whose last Test outing 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 where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."
"I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."
Australian Injury Worries
Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members have led to all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, which starts on Sunday.
Australia already have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since July because of lumbar bone stress in his back.
"Green is unavailable for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.
"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the Ashes."
Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start October 28th.
