Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian chair of selectors the selector has confirmed that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the likelihood of taking part.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, aside from the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he will feature a major part. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the contest.
He mentioned that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the first Test as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games regardless. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for a short period, we opted to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
