Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches set to start on the 21st of November in Perth.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, not only the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a key capacity. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of back injuries, with recurrences in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against India as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and confirmed that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the first Test as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs regardless. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for a short period, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
