Pat Cummins Set to Play a Significant Contribution in Ashes Series
The pace bowler has taken 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on the 21st of November in the WACA.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of taking part.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations around that, not only the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. Ideally from the opening match. If not, we'll reassess."
Injury History
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after scans revealed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.
The selector indicated that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against India as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and stated 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 take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, we opted to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
