Pat Cummins Expected to Feature a Major Role in the Ashes
The Australian skipper has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the prospects of taking part.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations around that, aside from the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of back injuries, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the series.
The selector indicated that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games anyway. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026