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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the opening match of the Ashes series down under.

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

That tournament and India series that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury which sidelined him for many months.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee, at times, when it seemed 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 my speed is increasing."

The first match of the series starts on 21 November in Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series in Australia since 2010-2011.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well in the practice games and in net sessions, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka over a year back.

"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it had its ups and downs, but now I'm in a better place where i'm hoping to kick on toward the match."

"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

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 with India, which starts on Sunday.

Australia already have concerns over the condition 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 after suffering mild side discomfort at training this week," Cricket Australia said.

"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is expected to be back for the third round of domestic cricket to further prepare for the Ashes."

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