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England's fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" about his fitness 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 had an operation on a left knee injury in March.

The Champions Trophy and India series which came before was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem 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 it seemed that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."

"I got knocked back a couple of times, but during the 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 at Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win in Australia in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, who last played a Test 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 now I'm in a better place where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."

"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I feel assured currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Injury Worries

At the same time, worries for Australia regarding the health of squad members has resulted in player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, beginning this weekend.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series after suffering low-grade side soreness during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.

"He will undergo 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 October 28th.