The fast bowler Set to Play a Key Part in Ashes Series

The Australian chief selector George Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.

Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.

Initial reports from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on 21 November in the WACA.

The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of participating.

"It's clear that the window is narrowing and various factors around that, aside from his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.

"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. Hopefully it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."

Injury History

The captain missed the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.

He has a history of recurring issues, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of several home seasons in four years.

Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.

The selector indicated that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the opener.

Backup Options

In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.

Versatile player Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of soreness in his side.

The selector characterized it as a "small issue and mentioned that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."

"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the first Test as an dual-role player," he elaborated.

"His involvement was limited to the starting games in any case. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for a short period, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."

Series Schedule

Australia vs England: The Ashes

21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026