Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief the selector has declared that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on 21 November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the prospects of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations around that, not only his injury, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he will feature a major part. Hopefully from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India last month after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from several home seasons in a short span.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for a short period, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
