English Fast Bowler Mark Wood Reveals Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series First Test
The bowler has been absent from Test cricket since August 2024.
England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" about his fitness for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.
Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery for a knee issue in March.
That tournament and India series which came before was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury which sidelined him since August 2024.
"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee sometimes, when you think that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."
"I got knocked back a couple of times, but during the training camp progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."
The opener of the Ashes begins November 21st at Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win on Australian soil since 2010-2011.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively in the practice games and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, 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 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'm in a confident place currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm quietly confident."
Australia's Injury Worries
At the same time, worries for Australia regarding the health of squad members have led to player 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 skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since July due to a back injury affecting his spine.
"Green is unavailable of the [India] series having experienced mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.
"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation 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 the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start October 28th.
