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The English pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the opening match of the Ashes series down under.

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan in February and had an operation on a left knee injury in March.

That tournament and India series which came before was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.

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

"I got knocked back on several occasions, but during the training camp progress has been positive. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."

The opener of the series starts on 21 November in Perth, with England seeking victory in 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 net sessions, and can put my hand up for the first Test," Wood continued, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka over a year back.

"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it had its ups and downs, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward for that game."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm quietly confident."

Australian 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 concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress in his back.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.

"He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return to play in round three 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.