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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" about his fitness for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.

Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and had an operation for a knee issue this spring.

The Champions Trophy and India series that preceded it marked his comeback from an elbow injury which sidelined him for many months.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee, at times, when you think that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. We've used the radar gun and my speed is increasing."

The opener of the Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series in Australia since 2010-2011.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively in the practice games and in the nets, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, 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 I'm in a good position now where i'm hoping to kick on toward the match."

"I avoid making statements where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australian Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members have led to player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend.

The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress in his back.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return to play in round three of domestic cricket to further prepare for the Ashes."

The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start October 28th.