Pat Cummins has secured 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian chair of selectors George Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest set to start on November 21 in Western Australia.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the likelihood of participating.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations at play, aside from the physical problem, but additional elements," he commented.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. With luck from the opening match. If not, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the contest.
The selector indicated that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from Australia's squad 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 "small issue and stated that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
