Pat Cummins Poised for a Major Role in the Ashes
Pat Cummins has taken 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief George Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest set to start on November 21 in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the prospects of participating.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors at play, aside from his injury, but additional elements," the selector added.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he will feature a major part. Hopefully from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand last month after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the national team for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and confirmed that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the initial game as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
