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The English pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "quietly confident" about his fitness for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.

Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan in February and underwent surgery for a knee issue in March.

The Champions Trophy and India series that preceded it was the 35-year-old's return from an elbow injury that had kept him out for many months.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee sometimes, when you think 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. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."

The opener of the series begins November 21st 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 the nets, and can make my case for the first Test," Wood continued, whose last Test outing versus Sri Lanka over a year back.

"My recovery wasn't a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, but now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward toward the match."

"I avoid making statements claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australian Injury Worries

Meanwhile, Australia's concerns regarding the health of players have led to all-rounder 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 skipper Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year because of lumbar bone stress affecting his spine.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out for the India series having experienced low-grade side soreness during recent practice," the cricket board stated.

"He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return for the third round of domestic cricket to continue his preparation for the Ashes."

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