Mark Wood is back bowling at full pace against his England teammates in practice, while Cameron Green is preparing for his return to Test bowling for Australia.

The Ashes series begins on Friday, and every development this week is shaping selection decisions for the opening Test of the 2025–26 edition of cricket’s oldest rivalry.

Wood withdrew from a trial match against a second-string England side last week due to a hamstring strain in what was his first game since undergoing knee surgery in March. However, he was cleared after medical scans and bowled for 30 minutes in the nets on Tuesday during England’s first practice session at Perth Stadium, the venue for the first Test.

“He was quick enough, I can tell you that from facing him,” wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith said. “He's bowling very good pace, and it's obviously great preparation for what we've got in store here.”

With Jofra Archer also in contention, England could field two express pacers in a city known for favouring high-quality fast bowling.

“I feel our bowling group have a good chance of getting 20 wickets in the game,” fast bowler Josh Tongue said during practice.

Australia, meanwhile, will be without senior quicks Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, both ruled out of the first Test due to injury.

Having allrounder Green back in the Test bowling unit for the first time since March 2024 could help settle Australia’s attack. Green, who underwent back surgery last year and didn’t play a Test for more than 12 months, returned to international cricket in June but only as a batter.

He bowled 16 overs in a domestic first-class match for Western Australia last week and says he is fully ready for the challenge.

“It’s been a really slow build-up,” Green said. “Probably would prefer a few more competitive overs, but at the same time, it’s a double-edged sword you come into a series so fresh. When you get into Test cricket, there’s no need for restrictions. I’d be happy to put my hand up whenever.”

His batting position will depend on Australia’s choice of opening partner for Usman Khawaja, with selectors yet to finalise the top order.

The first Test in Perth runs from November 21–25, followed by a day-night Test at the Gabba from December 4. The series then moves to Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney.

(By PTI Inputs)