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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan in February and had an operation for a knee issue this spring.

The Champions Trophy and India series which came before marked his comeback after an elbow problem which sidelined him since August 2024.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee sometimes, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but during the training camp progress has been positive. We've used the radar gun and the pace is getting up there."

The opener of the series begins November 21st in Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series in Australia in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well in the practice games and in net sessions, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"The rehab hasn't just been a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward for that game."

"I avoid making statements where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Fitness Concerns

Meanwhile, worries for Australia 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 with India, which starts on Sunday.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July due to a back injury in his back.

"Green is unavailable of the [India] series having experienced low-grade side soreness during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the Ashes."

Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start on 28 October.