Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector the selector has stated that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches set to start on November 21 in the WACA.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the prospects of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations around that, not only the physical problem, but further aspects," the selector added.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he will feature a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of spinal problems, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from three Australian summers in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the first Test as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs anyway. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for a short period, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
