Pat Cummins has secured 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector George Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the prospects of taking part.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations involved, not only the back issue, but further aspects," he commented.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a major part. With luck from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the series.
He mentioned 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 recover fully for the initial match.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
