Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector the selector has confirmed that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that Cummins might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp 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.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of being involved.
"It's clear that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, aside from the physical problem, but additional elements," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he's going to play a significant role. Ideally it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons leading to absences from three Australian summers in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the national team for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, 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 be available for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches regardless. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
