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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the opening match of the Ashes series down under.

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

That tournament and India series which came before marked his comeback from an elbow injury that had kept him out for many months.

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

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but during the training camp progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."

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

"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can make my case for the first Test," added Wood, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"The rehab hasn't just been a smooth process, it had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australia's Injury Worries

At the same time, Australia's concerns over the fitness of squad members has resulted in all-rounder 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 July due to a back injury affecting his spine.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series having experienced mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.

"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the series."

Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start on 28 October.