Pat Cummins Set to Play a Major Role in Ashes Series
Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series set to start on the 21st of November in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about his chances of being involved.
"We know that time is getting short and various factors at play, aside from the physical problem, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a major part. Hopefully starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of back injuries, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from three Australian summers in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the first Test as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the initial matches in any case. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for another day, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
