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England's fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" about his fitness for the opening match of the Ashes series in Australia.

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery for a knee issue in March.

The Champions Trophy and India series that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem which sidelined him 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 that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I got knocked back on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] it's been going well. We've used the radar gun and my speed is increasing."

The first match of the series begins November 21st in Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series in Australia in over a decade.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively 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.

"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward toward the match."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australian Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns over the fitness of players has resulted in player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, beginning this weekend.

Australia already have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since July because of lumbar bone stress in his back.

"Green is unavailable 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 domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the Ashes."

The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins on 28 October.