Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors George Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest kicking off on the 21st of November in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of participating.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and various factors involved, not only the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he's going to play a major part. With luck from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India recently after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the contest.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against India as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the initial matches anyway. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for a short period, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
