Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series kicking off on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the prospects of taking part.
"It's clear that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, not only his injury, but further aspects," he commented.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a key capacity. Ideally from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Injury History
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand last month after scans revealed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with setbacks in multiple past seasons causing him to miss three Australian summers in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the series.
He mentioned that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the national team for their limited-overs matches against India as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games in any case. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
