Australia's captain Set to Play a Significant Contribution in Ashes Series
The Australian skipper has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations around that, not only the back issue, but further aspects," he commented.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. With luck from the opening match. If not, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with setbacks in multiple past seasons leading to absences from three Australian summers in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the opening match as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for a short period, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
