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

Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery on a left knee injury in March.

The Champions Trophy and India series which came before marked his comeback after an elbow problem that had kept him out for many months.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee, at times, when you think that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."

"I got knocked back a couple of times, but during the training camp it's been going well. We've used the radar gun and the pace is getting up there."

The first match of the Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win in Australia in over a decade.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively in the practice games and in net sessions, and can make my case for the first Test," added Wood, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it had its ups and downs, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward toward the match."

"I never want to give an answer where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I feel assured currently and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australian Fitness Concerns

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, which starts on Sunday.

The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since July because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"Green is unavailable of the [India] series after suffering mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.

"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the series."

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