Pat Cummins has claimed 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
The Australian selection chief George Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the likelihood of participating.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations around that, aside from the physical problem, but other factors as well," he commented.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he's going to play a key capacity. Hopefully starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for another day, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
