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Australia's chief selector Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming Ashes series.

There were concerns that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.

Initial reports from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.

The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the prospects of being involved.

"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations at play, aside from the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.

"It's positive. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, then we'll pick it up."

Injury History

Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.

Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in four years.

Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the series.

Bailey noted that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the first Test.

Backup Options

Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.

Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.

The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and stated that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."

"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the opening match as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.

"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches in any case. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."

Series Schedule

The Ashes: Australia v England

From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026