Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief the selector has stated that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the prospects of being involved.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations around that, not only the back issue, but further aspects," he commented.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he will feature a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the contest.
He mentioned that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and stated that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"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 a short period, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
