Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on 21 November in Perth.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of taking part.
"We know that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, not just the physical problem, but other factors as well," he commented.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a major part. Hopefully from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in four years.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the contest.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the opening match as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games in any case. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
