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English Fast Bowler Mark Wood Expresses Reserved Optimism for Ashes Opener
Wood has been absent from Test cricket for over a year.
England's fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" about his fitness for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.
The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery on a left knee injury 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 since August 2024.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee, at times, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."
"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 the pace is getting up there."
The opener 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, delivering effectively in the practice games and in the nets, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it had its ups and downs, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward for that game."
"I never want to give an answer 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 players has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, beginning this weekend.
The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year 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 brief rehab stint and is expected to be back 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 begins on 28 October.
Julie Myers
Marlon Vance is a seasoned sports analyst with over a decade of experience in betting markets, specializing in data-driven predictions and strategy development.
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