The fast bowler Set to Play a Major Role in the Ashes
Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector George Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series set to start on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the prospects of participating.
"We know that the window is narrowing and various factors around that, not only the physical problem, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he will feature a major part. Hopefully it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of three Australian summers in a short span.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the contest.
The selector indicated that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against India as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the starting games regardless. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress 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
