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England's fast bowler Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.

The cricketer has been sidelined following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery for a knee issue in March.

The Champions Trophy and India series which came before was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury which sidelined him for many months.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I didn't get to play any matches and my knee, at times, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] progress has been positive. We've used the radar gun and my speed is increasing."

The first match of the Ashes starts on 21 November at Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win on Australian soil in over a decade.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can put my hand up for the first Test," added Wood, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward for that game."

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

Australia's Fitness Concerns

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of squad members has resulted in player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, which starts on Sunday.

The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year due to a back injury affecting his spine.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series after suffering mild side discomfort during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the series."

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