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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.

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

That tournament and tour of India which came before marked his comeback from an elbow injury that had kept him out for many months.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play 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 on several occasions, but during the training camp progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."

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

"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka over a year back.

"The rehab hasn't just been a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward toward the match."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Injury Worries

At the same time, worries for Australia over the fitness of squad members have led to all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, beginning this weekend.

The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"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 tracking to return to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the series."

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins on 28 October.