Smith: Fit-again Wood absolutely rapid in nets

MARK Wood's chances of lining up in the first Ashes Test are on the rise after roaring through an “absolutely rapid” spell in the nets in Perth.

- RORY DOLLARD

> England wicketkeeper-batsman Jamie Smith Gareth Copley/Getty Images

(Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

Wood has not played competitively since undergoing knee surgery in March and saw his hopes of making the series opener thrown into doubt after playing a reduced role in last week's tour game against the England Lions.

However, scans on a stiff left hamstring showed no cause for concern and there is renewed optimism in the camp that the quickest bowler in the country could be ready for what is expected to be a fast and furious surface.

Wood was heavily strapped up, but bowled for around 40 minutes as England trained for the first time at the 60,000-capacity Perth Stadium, increasing his run-up incrementally and working towards full speed.