Pat Cummins has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian selection chief George Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in Western Australia.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about his chances of being involved.
"We know that the clock is ticking and there are permutations involved, not just his injury, but further aspects," he commented.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he will feature a major part. With luck from the opening match. If not, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India recently after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of back injuries, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the series.
He mentioned that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
