Pat Cummins has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector the selector has declared that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest set to start on November 21 in the WACA.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the likelihood of being involved.
"We know that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, aside from his injury, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he's going to play a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India last month after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss three Australian summers in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue 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 initial game as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the initial matches anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
