Pat Cummins has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
Australia's chair of selectors George Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the prospects of taking part.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations at play, not only the physical problem, but further aspects," he commented.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a major part. Ideally from the opening match. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India last month after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from three Australian summers in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the series.
He mentioned that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort 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, even if it just sets him back for a short period, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
