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England's pace spearhead Mark Wood has stated he feels "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the first Test of cricket's greatest rivalry in Australia.

The cricketer has been sidelined since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery on a left knee injury this spring.

That tournament and tour of India that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem 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 was not just quite there."

"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but during the training camp it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and my speed is increasing."

The first match of the series starts on 21 November at Perth, with England aiming to win their initial series win on Australian soil in over a decade.

"With luck, I'll be performing well, bowling well during warm-up matches and in the nets, and can put my hand up for the first Test," added Wood, whose last Test outing was against 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 where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."

"I never want to give an answer claiming, 'Yes, I'm pumped, I'm set'. I feel assured at the minute and more optimistic, so I'm cautiously hopeful."

Australia's Fitness Concerns

Meanwhile, worries for Australia over the fitness of players has resulted in player Cameron Green making way for Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series against India, beginning this weekend.

The Aussies also have doubts about the fitness of captain 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 short period of rehabilitation and is tracking to return for the third round of the Sheffield Shield to continue his preparation for the series."

Round three of the Sheffield Shield tournament is scheduled to start on 28 October.