Pat Cummins Expected to Feature a Key Part in the Ashes
Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief the selector has confirmed that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on 21 November in Perth.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"It's clear that time is getting short and various factors at play, not only the back issue, but additional elements," he commented.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. With luck from the opening match. If not, we'll adjust."
Injury History
The captain missed the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand last month after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against India as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the first Test as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs anyway. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for another day, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
