Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series set to start on 21 November in the WACA.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about his chances of participating.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors involved, aside from the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a major part. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, we'll reassess."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of back injuries, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in four years.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the national team for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he'll feature 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 first Test as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the initial matches in any case. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for a short period, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
