Pat Cummins has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in Western Australia.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about his chances of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and various factors involved, aside from the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he's going to play a significant role. Ideally it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of three Australian summers in a short span.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.
He mentioned that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the first Test as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
