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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" of being fit for the opening match of cricket's greatest rivalry down under.

The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat by Afghanistan last winter and had an operation on a left knee injury this spring.

That tournament and tour of India which came before was the 35-year-old's return after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.

"It was a frustrating summer," Wood stated. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee sometimes, when it seemed that you're just about ready, 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 opener of the Ashes begins November 21st in Perth, with England aiming to win their first Test series on Australian soil in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, delivering effectively in the practice games and in the nets, and can make my case 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 now I'm in a better place and hope to push forward 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 cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Fitness Concerns

At the same time, worries for Australia over the fitness of squad members have led to player Cameron Green making way for 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 due to a back injury affecting his spine.

"Cameron Green has been ruled out 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 to play in round three of domestic cricket to further prepare for the series."

Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament begins October 28th.