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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" of being fit for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.

Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery for a knee issue in March.

The Champions Trophy and India series which came before was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury 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 you think I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."

"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 begins November 21st in Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win in Australia in over a decade.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well in the practice games and in the nets, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now where i'm hoping to kick on toward the match."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australian Injury Worries

At the same time, worries for Australia over the fitness of squad members have led to player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, which starts on Sunday.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July due to a back injury affecting his spine.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series after suffering mild side discomfort during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the series."

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start October 28th.