The fast bowler Set to Play a Major Role in Ashes Series
The Australian skipper has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that Cummins might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about his chances of taking part.
"It's clear that time is getting short and there are permutations around that, not only his injury, but additional elements," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India last month after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the opening match as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the initial matches regardless. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for a short period, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
