English Fast Bowler Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for Ashes Opener
Wood has been absent from Test cricket since August 2024.
The English pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" 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 last winter and underwent surgery for a knee issue this spring.
The Champions Trophy and tour of India that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem that had kept him out 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 I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."
"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but during the training camp it's been going well. We've used the radar gun and my speed is increasing."
The first match of the Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win in Australia in over a decade.
"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well in the practice games and in the nets, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka over a year back.
"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward toward the match."
"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australia's Fitness Concerns
Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend.
Australia already have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since July because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.
"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort during recent practice," the cricket board stated.
"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the series."
The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start October 28th.
