The fast bowler Expected to Feature a Significant Contribution in Ashes Series
The pace bowler has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series kicking off on November 21 in Western Australia.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and various factors at play, not just the physical problem, but additional elements," the selector added.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a major part. Ideally it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of recurring issues, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from several home seasons in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place 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 all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs regardless. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
