The fast bowler Set to Play a Key Part in the Ashes
The Australian skipper has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has declared that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations involved, not just the physical problem, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a key capacity. Ideally from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss three Australian summers in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the series.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the opening match as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs anyway. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
