Pat Cummins has claimed 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chief selector the selector has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series kicking off on the 21st of November in the WACA.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of taking part.
"We know that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, aside from the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India last month after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.
He mentioned that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs regardless. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
