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The English pace spearhead 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 against Afghanistan in February and had an operation on a left knee injury this spring.

That tournament and tour of India that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any cricket and my knee sometimes, when you think that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."

"I got knocked back a couple of times, but in the tent [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 aiming to win their first Test series in Australia since 2010-2011.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively in the practice games 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.

"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, 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 never want to give an answer claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australia's Injury Worries

At the same time, Australia's concerns over the fitness of squad members have led to all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, which starts on Sunday.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since July because of lumbar bone stress in his back.

"Green is unavailable for the India series having experienced low-grade side soreness during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.

"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 the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start on 28 October.