Pat Cummins has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector the selector has declared that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on November 21 in Western Australia.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the prospects of being involved.
"It's clear that time is getting short and various factors around that, aside from his injury, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a key capacity. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games in any case. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
