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England's fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.

The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan last winter and had an operation for a knee issue this spring.

That tournament and India series which came before marked his comeback after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "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 on several occasions, but during the training camp progress has been positive. We've used the radar gun and my speed is increasing."

The opener of the series starts on 21 November at Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win on Australian soil in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, who last played a Test versus Sri Lanka over a year back.

"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, 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 avoid making statements where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Injury Worries

At the same time, worries for Australia over the fitness of squad members has resulted in player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, which starts on Sunday.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July due to a back injury affecting his spine.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort at training this week," the cricket board stated.

"Green will complete 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 Ashes."

Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start on 28 October.