Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector the selector has stated that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations involved, not just his injury, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a major part. Hopefully from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of back injuries, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but conceded it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the initial game as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games in any case. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for another day, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
