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The English fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery 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 that had kept him out for many months.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee, at times, when you think that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."

"I got knocked back on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."

The opener of the series starts on 21 November in Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win in Australia since 2010-2011.

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

"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it had its ups and downs, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward toward the match."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Fitness Concerns

At the same time, worries for Australia regarding the health of squad members has resulted in player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year due to a back injury in his back.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series having experienced mild side discomfort during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back to play in round three of domestic cricket to further prepare for the Ashes."

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