Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors George Bailey has declared that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on November 21 in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the likelihood of taking part.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations at play, aside from his injury, but other factors as well," he commented.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he will feature a significant role. Ideally starting in Perth. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss three Australian summers in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and confirmed that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the initial matches anyway. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
