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England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" about his fitness for the opening match of the Ashes series down under.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan in February and had an operation for a knee issue this spring.

The Champions Trophy and India series that preceded it marked his comeback from an elbow injury which sidelined him for many months.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee, at times, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but during the training camp progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."

The first match of the series begins November 21st in Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can put my hand up 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 had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward toward the match."

"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I feel assured currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm quietly confident."

Australian Injury Worries

At the same time, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players has resulted in player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, beginning this weekend.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since July because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series after suffering low-grade side soreness at training this week," the cricket board stated.

"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return to play in round three of domestic cricket to further prepare for the series."

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start October 28th.