Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on the 21st of November in Perth.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of taking part.
"It's clear that time is getting short and multiple considerations involved, aside from the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a key capacity. Hopefully from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of recurring issues, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the contest.
He mentioned that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the opening match as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches anyway. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for a short period, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
