Pat Cummins Poised for a Major Role in Iconic Rivalry
Pat Cummins has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about his chances of participating.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and there are permutations around that, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he's going to play a key capacity. With luck from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
He mentioned that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the initial game as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
