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England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.

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

That tournament and tour of India that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return 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, at times, when it seemed I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I faced setbacks a couple of times, but during the training camp it's been going well. We've used the radar gun and the pace is getting up there."

The opener of the series begins November 21st in Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series on Australian soil since 2010-2011.

"Hopefully, I'm in form, bowling well during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can put my hand up for that game [Ashes opener]," Wood continued, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka over a year back.

"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."

"I avoid making statements where I say, 'I'm fully ready, I'm ready'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm quietly confident."

Australia's Fitness Concerns

At the same time, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players have led to player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, beginning this weekend.

Australia already have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who's been absent since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"Green is unavailable 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 tracking to return to play in round three of the Sheffield Shield to further prepare for the Ashes."

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