Pat Cummins Expected to Feature a Key Part in Ashes Series
The Australian skipper has claimed 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
Australia's chair of selectors George Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series kicking off 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 window is narrowing and there are permutations at play, not only the back issue, but further aspects," he commented.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. With luck it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in multiple past seasons leading to absences from several home seasons in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
He mentioned that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs regardless. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for a short period, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026