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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.

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

That tournament and India series that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury which sidelined him for many months.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee, at times, when you think I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."

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

The opener of the Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series in Australia since 2010-2011.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can make my case for the first Test," added Wood, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka over a year back.

"The rehab hasn't just been 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 avoid making statements claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I feel assured at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm quietly confident."

Australian Injury Worries

At the same time, Australia's concerns over the fitness of squad members have led to player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, beginning this weekend.

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

"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series after suffering mild side discomfort at training this week," Cricket Australia said.

"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back for the third round of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the series."

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins October 28th.