The fast bowler Set to Play a Major Role in Ashes Series
The pace bowler has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief George Bailey has declared that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that time is getting short and various factors at play, aside from his injury, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of recurring issues, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the first Test as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs in any case. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
