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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" of being fit for the opening match of the Ashes series in Australia.

The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan in February and had an operation for a knee issue this spring.

That tournament and India series that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury that had kept him out for many months.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee, at times, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but during the training camp it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."

The opener of the Ashes starts on 21 November in Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win in Australia since 2010-2011.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well in the practice games and in the nets, and can put my hand up for the first Test," added Wood, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka over a year back.

"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward for that game."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Injury Worries

Meanwhile, worries for Australia over the fitness of squad members have led to player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, which starts on Sunday.

The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July because of lumbar bone stress in his back.

"Green is unavailable of the [India] series having experienced mild side discomfort during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the series."

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