Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector George Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations involved, not just his injury, but additional elements," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand recently after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to make the squad for the Ashes.
He mentioned that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against India as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "small issue and mentioned that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the initial game as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
