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The English fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.

Wood has not played following a Champions Trophy loss by Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery on a left knee injury this spring.

The Champions Trophy and India series that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem that had kept him out for many months.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee sometimes, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but during the 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 Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win in Australia since 2010-2011.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can put my hand up for the first Test," added Wood, who last played a Test versus 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 where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."

"I avoid making statements where I say, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm ready'. I feel assured at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Fitness Concerns

At the same time, worries for Australia over the fitness of players have led to player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, beginning this weekend.

The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress in his back.

"Green is unavailable of the [India] series having experienced low-grade side soreness at training this week," Cricket Australia said.

"He will undergo a brief rehab stint and is tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to further prepare for the Ashes."

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start on 28 October.