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Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's England-Australia contest.

Rumors had circulated that Cummins might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.

Initial reports from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches kicking off on the 21st of November in Perth.

He revealed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of participating.

"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, aside from the back issue, but other factors as well," he commented.

"It's positive. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. If not, then we'll pick it up."

Injury History

Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.

There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in multiple past seasons forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in four years.

The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.

The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.

Alternative Arrangements

If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.

The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.

The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."

"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the initial game as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.

"He was only going to play the initial matches anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for another day, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."

Fixture Details

The Ashes: Australia v England

21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026