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The English pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series down under.

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan in February 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.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee sometimes, when you think that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."

"I got knocked back a couple of times, 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 Ashes starts on 21 November at Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series in Australia since 2010-2011.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively in the practice games and in the nets, and can put my hand up for the first Test," added Wood, 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 for that game."

"I avoid making statements where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I feel assured at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Injury Worries

Meanwhile, worries for Australia 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, beginning this weekend.

Australia already have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since July because of lumbar bone stress in his back.

"Green is unavailable for the India series after suffering low-grade side soreness during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes."

The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start October 28th.