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

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery for a knee issue this spring.

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

"The summer was disappointing," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee sometimes, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I got knocked back on several occasions, but during the training camp it's been going well. We've used the radar gun and my speed is increasing."

The first match of the series starts on 21 November in Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win in Australia in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively in the practice games and in the nets, and can put my hand up for the first Test," added Wood, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka over a year back.

"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, it had its ups and downs, but I'm in a good position now where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place currently and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australian Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members have led to all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, which starts on Sunday.

The Aussies also have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since July due to a back injury affecting his spine.

"Green is unavailable for the India series having experienced mild side discomfort at training this week," the cricket board stated.

"Green will complete a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the Ashes."

Round three of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins on 28 October.