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The Australian selection chief Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming England-Australia contest.

There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.

Initial reports from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches set to start on 21 November in Western Australia.

He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of participating.

"We know that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, not just the physical problem, but additional elements," he commented.

"It's positive. We firmly believe that he's going to play a major part. With luck it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."

Past Concerns

Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.

He has a history of spinal problems, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from several home seasons in a short span.

The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the series.

Bailey noted 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 be fit for the first Test.

Backup Options

If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.

All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.

Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."

"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.

"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games anyway. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we opted to approach this more conservatively."

Fixture Details

The Ashes: Australia v England

From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026