English Paceman Mark Wood Expresses Quiet Confidence for Ashes Opener
The bowler has been absent from Test cricket for over a year.
England's fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.
Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan in February and had an operation for a knee issue in March.
The Champions Trophy and India series that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem that had kept him out for many months.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any cricket 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] it's been going well. We've used the radar gun and the pace is getting up there."
The first match of the Ashes begins November 21st at Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series on Australian soil since 2010-2011.
"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well in the practice games and in net sessions, 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 toward the match."
"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."
Australian Injury Worries
At the same time, worries for Australia regarding the health of squad members has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, beginning this weekend.
The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July due to a back injury affecting his spine.
"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 for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes."
The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start on 28 October.
