Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian chair of selectors George Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of being involved.
"We know that the clock is ticking and there are permutations at play, not only the back issue, but further aspects," he commented.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. Ideally starting in Perth. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand recently after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in multiple past seasons causing him to miss three Australian summers in four years.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the contest.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and stated that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games anyway. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for another day, we opted to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
