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The English fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" about his fitness for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan last winter and had an operation on a left knee injury in March.

That tournament and tour of India that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem that had kept him out 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 was not just quite there."

"I got knocked back a couple of times, but during the training camp it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."

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

"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka over a year back.

"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, it had its ups and downs, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward for that game."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australian Fitness Concerns

At the same time, worries for Australia regarding the health of squad members have led to 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 because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"Green is unavailable of the [India] series having experienced low-grade side soreness during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return to play in round three of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the Ashes."

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