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England's fast bowler 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 following a Champions Trophy loss against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery for a knee issue in March.

That tournament and tour of India which came before marked his comeback from an elbow injury that had kept him out for many months.

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee, at times, 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 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 starts on 21 November in Perth, with England seeking victory in their first Test series on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can make my case for that game [Ashes opener]," added Wood, whose last Test outing was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.

"The rehab hasn't just been 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, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australia's Injury Worries

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

The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year due to a back injury affecting his spine.

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

"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the Ashes."

The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins October 28th.