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The English pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.

The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan last winter and had an operation for a knee issue this spring.

The Champions Trophy and tour of India which came before was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury which sidelined him for many months.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee sometimes, when you think I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."

"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 opener 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, delivering effectively in the practice games and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"The rehab hasn't just been a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but now I'm in a better place where i'm hoping to kick on toward the match."

"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australian Fitness Concerns

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

Australia already have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July due to a back injury in his back.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

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

Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins October 28th.