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

The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan in February and had an operation for a knee issue this spring.

That tournament and India series which came before marked his comeback from an elbow injury which sidelined him for many months.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee, at times, when you think I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I faced setbacks a couple of times, 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 opener of the series begins November 21st at Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series in Australia in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"The rehab hasn't just been a smooth process, it had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward toward the match."

"I avoid making statements where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australian Injury Worries

At the same time, Australia's concerns over the fitness of players 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 concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since July due to a back injury in his back.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series after suffering low-grade side soreness at training this week," Cricket Australia said.

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

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start October 28th.