Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chair of selectors George Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches kicking off on the 21st of November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations around that, not only the physical problem, but further aspects," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. Ideally starting in Perth. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from three Australian summers in a short span.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
He mentioned that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and confirmed that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place 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 dual-role player," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games regardless. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for a short period, we opted to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
