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The English pace spearhead 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 had an operation for a knee issue this spring.

That tournament and tour of India that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee sometimes, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, 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 first match of the series begins November 21st in Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series on Australian soil in over a decade.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka over a year back.

"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward toward the match."

"I avoid making statements where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australia's Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members have led to player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, beginning this weekend.

Australia already have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort at training this week," Cricket Australia said.

"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to further prepare for the series."

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