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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series down under.

Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery for a knee issue in March.

The Champions Trophy and tour of India which came before 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 didn't get to play any cricket and my knee, at times, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but during the training camp progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."

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

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well in the practice games and in the nets, and can make my case for the first Test," Wood continued, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"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 never want to give an answer where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australian Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players have led to player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against 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 affecting his spine.

"Green is unavailable for the India series after suffering low-grade side soreness at training this week," Cricket Australia said.

"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the series."

The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins on 28 October.