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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" of being fit for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat 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 it seemed I was nearly fit, it wasn't fully recovered."

"I got knocked back a couple of times, but in the tent [training camp] it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."

The first match of the Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win in Australia in over a decade.

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

"My recovery wasn't a smooth process, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now and hope to push forward toward the match."

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

Australia's Injury Worries

At the same time, Australia's concerns over the fitness of squad members has resulted in all-rounder Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series against India, beginning this weekend.

The Aussies also 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 low-grade side soreness 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 domestic cricket to further prepare for the Ashes."

The third round of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins on 28 October.