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England's fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery for a knee issue in March.

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

"It was a frustrating summer," 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 faced setbacks on several occasions, but during the training camp progress has been positive. We've used the radar gun and my speed is increasing."

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

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can make my case for the first Test," added Wood, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"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 where i'm hoping to kick on toward the match."

"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australian Fitness Concerns

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns over the fitness of players has resulted in player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, which starts on Sunday.

The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since July due to a back injury affecting his spine.

"Green is unavailable 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 tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the Ashes."

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