Pat Cummins has claimed 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian chair of selectors the selector has stated that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the prospects of being involved.
"We know that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, not just his injury, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he's going to play a major part. Ideally it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of several home seasons in a short span.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the series.
Bailey noted that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the national team for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and mentioned that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the first Test as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
