The fast bowler Set to Play a Major Role in Ashes Series
Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from the squad 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 his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, aside from the physical problem, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he will feature a key capacity. Ideally from the opening match. If not, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India last month after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the Ashes.
He mentioned that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and mentioned that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches in any case. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
