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England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.

The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan last winter and had an operation on a left knee injury in March.

The Champions Trophy and tour of India that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury which sidelined him for many months.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee, at times, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but during the training camp it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."

The first match of the Ashes begins November 21st at Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win in Australia since 2010-2011.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for the first Test," added Wood, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka over a year back.

"The rehab hasn't just been a smooth process, 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 claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Fitness Concerns

At the same time, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members have led to all-rounder 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 captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"Green is unavailable of the [India] series having experienced low-grade side soreness during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the Ashes."

Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition is scheduled to start October 28th.