Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector George Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations at play, aside from his injury, but additional elements," the selector added.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a major part. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India last month after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of back injuries, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in four years.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the contest.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the opening match as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games regardless. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
