Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches set to start on the 21st of November in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about his chances of participating.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not only the back issue, but other factors as well," he commented.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he's going to play a major part. Hopefully from the opening match. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of back injuries, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from three Australian summers in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the series.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and mentioned that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the first Test as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games regardless. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
