Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors George Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the prospects of participating.
"It's clear that time is getting short and various factors involved, aside from his injury, but additional elements," he commented.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he's going to play a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. If not, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of three Australian summers in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the contest.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against India as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches anyway. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
