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The English fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.

Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery on a left knee injury this spring.

That tournament and tour of India that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem that had kept him out since August 2024.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee sometimes, when you think that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I got knocked back a couple of times, 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 series starts on 21 November at Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can make my case for the first Test," 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 now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward for that game."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Injury Worries

At the same time, worries for Australia over the fitness of players 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 mid-year because of lumbar bone stress in his back.

"Green is unavailable for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort 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 the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the Ashes."

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start October 28th.