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The English fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "quietly confident" of being fit for the opening match of the Ashes series in Australia.

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery for a knee issue in March.

The Champions Trophy and India series which came before was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury that had kept him out for many months.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee sometimes, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I got knocked back a couple of times, but during the 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.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

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

"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australian Fitness Concerns

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players has resulted in player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, which starts on Sunday.

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

"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort at training this week," Cricket Australia said.

"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes."

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