Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
Australia's chair of selectors the selector has confirmed that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series set to start on the 21st of November in the WACA.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the prospects of participating.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not just the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. Ideally it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of several home seasons in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against India as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the first Test as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches in any case. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we opted to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
