Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on November 21 in Western Australia.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the prospects of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, not only his injury, but additional elements," he commented.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a key capacity. Hopefully it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India recently after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of three Australian summers in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against India as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the first Test as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games regardless. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
