Pat Cummins has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors George Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series kicking off on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the likelihood of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations around that, not only the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a significant role. With luck starting in Perth. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from several home seasons in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the series.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
