Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors George Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest set to start on 21 November in the WACA.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the prospects of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors at play, not only his injury, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he will feature a key capacity. Hopefully it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of back injuries, with recurrences in multiple past seasons leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the initial matches in any case. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
