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England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" about his fitness for the opening match of the Ashes series down under.

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

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

"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee, at times, when it seemed that you're just about ready, it was not just quite there."

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

The first match of the series starts on 21 November at Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series in Australia 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]," Wood continued, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka over a year back.

"My recovery wasn't 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 never want to give an answer where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I'm in a confident place at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm quietly confident."

Australian Injury Worries

Meanwhile, worries for Australia over the fitness of players has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series with India, which starts on Sunday.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year due to a back injury in his back.

"Green is unavailable for the India series having experienced low-grade side soreness during recent practice," Cricket Australia said.

"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 the Sheffield Shield tournament begins on 28 October.