English Fast Bowler Mark Wood Reveals Quiet Confidence for Ashes First Test
The bowler has been absent from Test cricket since August 2024.
England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series down under.
The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan in February and had an operation on a left knee injury this spring.
That tournament and India series which came before marked his comeback after an elbow problem that had kept him out for many months.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee, at times, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."
"I got knocked back a couple of times, 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 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, 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 was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"The rehab hasn't just been a smooth process, it had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."
"I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australia's Injury Worries
At the same time, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, which starts on Sunday.
The Aussies also 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 for the India series after suffering low-grade side soreness at training this week," Cricket Australia said.
"He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the series."
Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins October 28th.
