England's Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Reserved Optimism for Ashes First Test
Wood has not played a Test for over a year.
England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.
Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan in February and had an operation on a left knee injury in March.
That tournament and India series which came before marked his comeback after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee sometimes, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."
"I got knocked back on several occasions, but during the training camp it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."
The first match of the Ashes starts on 21 November at Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win in Australia since 2010-2011.
"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively in the practice games and in net sessions, and can make my case for the first Test," Wood continued, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, it had its ups and downs, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward for that game."
"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australian Injury Worries
Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, beginning this weekend.
Australia already have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.
"Green is unavailable for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort at training this week," the cricket board stated.
"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to further prepare for the series."
Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins October 28th.
