Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief the selector has declared that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches set to start on November 21 in Western Australia.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about his chances of taking part.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations around that, not only the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he will feature a major part. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of three Australian summers in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the series.
He mentioned that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and confirmed that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the opening match as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for another day, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
