Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector George Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's Ashes series.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series set to start on 21 November in Western Australia.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the prospects of being involved.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, not just his injury, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he's going to play a major part. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with recurrences in multiple past seasons causing him to miss three Australian summers in a short span.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to make the squad for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and stated that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the first Test as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
