The fast bowler Expected to Feature a Major Role in Ashes Series
Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series set to start on 21 November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about his chances of taking part.
"It's clear that time is getting short and various factors around that, not just the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he will feature a major part. With luck it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of recurring issues, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the national team for their limited-overs matches against India as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the initial game as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs anyway. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026