Pat Cummins has taken 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches kicking off on the 21st of November in the WACA.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the prospects of being involved.
"We know that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not just the physical problem, but additional elements," he commented.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a key capacity. Ideally it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the series.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and stated that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the opening match as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
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The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
