Pat Cummins has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector George Bailey has declared that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on 21 November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors involved, not only the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he will feature a key capacity. Hopefully it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the contest.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches regardless. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
