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England's fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and had an operation on a left knee injury in March.

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

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee, at times, when you think that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."

"I faced setbacks 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.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively in the practice games and in the nets, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, whose last Test outing 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 for that game."

"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australian Injury Worries

Meanwhile, worries for Australia over the fitness of players has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green making way for 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 in his back.

"Green is unavailable for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort at training this week," the cricket board stated.

"He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back for the third round of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the Ashes."

The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start October 28th.