Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chair of selectors George Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming Ashes series.
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 official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on 21 November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the likelihood of taking part.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and there are permutations around that, not just the physical problem, but other factors as well," he commented.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he's going to play a major part. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand recently after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of spinal problems, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from several home seasons in four years.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan 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 "getting tight" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "small issue and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the initial matches anyway. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
