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The English pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery for a knee issue this spring.

The Champions Trophy and tour of India that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem that had kept him out for many months.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee sometimes, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."

"I got knocked back a couple of times, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. We've used the radar gun and the pace is getting up there."

The first match 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 net sessions, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka over a year back.

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

"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australian Fitness Concerns

At the same time, Australia's concerns over the fitness of squad members have led to player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, beginning this weekend.

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

"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort at training this week," Cricket Australia said.

"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back to play in round three of domestic cricket to further prepare for the Ashes."

Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start October 28th.