Australia's captain Set to Play a Key Part in the Ashes
Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian selection chief the selector has stated that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the likelihood of being involved.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and there are permutations at play, not just the back issue, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully it's the first Test. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after scans revealed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the series.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the national team for their ODI contests against India as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and mentioned that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the initial game as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches regardless. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
