The pace bowler has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors the selector has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on the 21st of November in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of being involved.
"We know that the clock is ticking and various factors at play, aside from the back issue, but other factors as well," he commented.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he's going to play a significant role. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand recently after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
The selector indicated that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the opener.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
