Pat Cummins Expected to Feature a Key Part in the Ashes
The pace bowler has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches kicking off on November 21 in Perth.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the likelihood of taking part.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations around that, not only the back issue, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he's going to play a key capacity. With luck starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
The captain missed the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of three Australian summers in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
