Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief the selector has stated that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the likelihood of taking part.
"It's clear that time is getting short and various factors involved, not only the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he will feature a significant role. Ideally it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the opener.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the starting games regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress 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
