Australia's captain Poised for a Major Role in Ashes Series
The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the prospects of being involved.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations around that, not only the back issue, but further aspects," he commented.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a major part. Ideally from the opening match. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India recently after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the contest.
The selector indicated that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against India as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games anyway. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
