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

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery for a knee issue this spring.

That tournament and India series which came before was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury which sidelined him for many months.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any cricket and my knee sometimes, when it seemed I was nearly fit, 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 my speed is increasing."

The first match of the series starts on 21 November at 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 make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward toward the match."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm quietly confident."

Australian Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members has resulted in player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, beginning this weekend.

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

"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series after suffering low-grade side soreness during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.

"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back to play in round three of domestic cricket to further prepare for the Ashes."

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