English Fast Bowler Mark Wood Reveals Reserved Optimism for Ashes Opener
Wood has been absent from Test cricket for over a year.
The English fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.
Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery for a knee issue this spring.
That tournament and tour of India which came before marked his comeback after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee sometimes, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."
"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but during the training camp it's been going well. 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 in Australia since 2010-2011.
"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can make my case for the first Test," added Wood, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka over a year back.
"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it had its ups and downs, but now I'm in a better place where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."
"I avoid making statements where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."
Australia's Fitness Concerns
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 three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend.
The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played 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.
"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes."
The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start on 28 October.
