Pat Cummins Poised for a Major Role in Ashes Series
The pace bowler has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief the selector has confirmed that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on the 21st of November in Perth.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the likelihood of being involved.
"We know that the window is narrowing and various factors around that, not just the physical problem, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he's going to play a significant role. Ideally from the opening match. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of back injuries, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the contest.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the first Test as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the starting games regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
