Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief George Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and various factors around that, not just the back issue, but additional elements," he commented.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he will feature a significant role. Ideally from the opening match. If not, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
The selector indicated that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the opening match as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the starting games in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for a short period, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
