The fast bowler Expected to Feature a Major Role in the Ashes
The pace bowler has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief George Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the likelihood of taking part.
"We know that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, aside from the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he will feature a significant role. Ideally starting in Perth. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after scans revealed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against India as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the first Test as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for another day, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
