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The English fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery on a left knee injury this spring.

The Champions Trophy and tour of India that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "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 on several occasions, but in the tent [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 starts on 21 November in 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 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 was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward for that game."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australian Fitness Concerns

At the same time, worries for Australia over the fitness of players has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, beginning this weekend.

The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July due to a back injury in his back.

"Green is unavailable of the [India] series after suffering low-grade side soreness during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.

"Green will complete 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."

Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start October 28th.