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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.

Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and had an operation for a knee issue this spring.

That tournament and India series that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem that had kept him out for many months.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee sometimes, when you think I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I faced setbacks 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 Ashes starts on 21 November at Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series in Australia in over a decade.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for the first Test," added Wood, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

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

"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australian Injury Worries

At the same time, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, which starts on Sunday.

Australia already have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress in his back.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series having experienced low-grade side soreness during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back to play in round three of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the series."

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