Australia's captain Poised for a Major Role in Ashes Series
The pace bowler has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector George Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about his chances of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations around that, not just the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he will feature a key capacity. With luck it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand recently after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process 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 "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and mentioned that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches in any case. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for another day, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
