Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector the selector has stated that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that Cummins might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on November 21 in Perth.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of taking part.
"We know that the clock is ticking and there are permutations involved, not only his injury, but further aspects," he commented.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, we'll reassess."
Injury History
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in four years.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against India as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the first Test as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games in any case. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
