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England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" about his fitness for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery on a left knee injury in March.

That tournament and tour of India that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return 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 sometimes, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."

The first match of the series starts on 21 November in Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series on Australian soil in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, 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 for that game."

"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 cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Injury Worries

At the same time, worries for Australia over the fitness of squad members has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, which starts on Sunday.

The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress in his back.

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

"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to further prepare for the series."

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