Australia's captain Expected to Feature a Significant Contribution in the Ashes
Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about his chances of taking part.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations involved, not only his injury, but additional elements," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. Ideally from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India last month after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the opening match as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games regardless. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
