The fast bowler Set to Play a Key Part in Ashes Series
Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chief selector the selector has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that time is getting short and various factors involved, not only the back issue, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he's going to play a major part. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of spinal problems, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the series.
The selector indicated that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and mentioned 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 participate for the initial game as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs anyway. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026