Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of participating.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and there are permutations around that, not just the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he's going to play a significant role. Hopefully it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Injury History
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India recently after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the Ashes.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their one-day international series against India as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the opening match as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
