The fast bowler Poised for a Major Role in Ashes Series
Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief George Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the likelihood of participating.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, aside from the physical problem, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he will feature a major part. Ideally it's the first Test. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the contest.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the national team for their limited-overs matches against India as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the opening match as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches in any case. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026