English Fast Bowler Mark Wood Reveals Quiet Confidence for The Ashes Series First Test
The bowler has not played a Test for over a year.
England's fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" about his fitness for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.
The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery on a left knee injury this spring.
That tournament and tour of India which came before marked his comeback from an elbow injury which sidelined him since August 2024.
"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee, at times, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."
"I got knocked back on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."
The first match of the Ashes starts on 21 November in Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series in Australia since 2010-2011.
"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can put my hand up for the first Test," added Wood, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"My recovery wasn't 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 never want to give an answer where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."
Australian Injury Worries
At the same time, worries for Australia over the fitness of squad members has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, beginning this weekend.
The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.
"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort at training this week," the cricket board stated.
"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back to play in round three of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the Ashes."
The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins October 28th.
