Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chair of selectors the selector has declared that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Perth.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about his chances of taking part.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and various factors at play, aside from the back issue, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he will feature a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the opener.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the initial game as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games in any case. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
