Pat Cummins has taken 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector George Bailey has declared that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the prospects of participating.
"We know that the window is narrowing and various factors at play, aside from the physical problem, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in multiple past seasons causing him to miss several home seasons in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the series.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against India as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches in any case. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
