The fast bowler Poised for a Major Role in Ashes Series
Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chief selector George Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the prospects of participating.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, not just his injury, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he will feature a significant role. Hopefully from the opening match. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from several home seasons in a short span.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and stated that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the initial game as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the initial matches anyway. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
