Pat Cummins has claimed 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors George Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest set to start on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of participating.
"We're aware that time is getting short and there are permutations at play, not just the physical problem, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. With luck starting in Perth. If not, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the contest.
The selector indicated that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the initial game as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs in any case. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for a short period, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
