Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches set to start on November 21 in Western Australia.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the prospects of being involved.
"We know that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations at play, not just his injury, but further aspects," he commented.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a major part. With luck starting in Perth. If not, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of spinal problems, with setbacks in multiple past seasons leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the series.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "small issue and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
