Australia's captain Expected to Feature a Major Role in Ashes Series
The Australian skipper has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in the WACA.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the prospects of taking part.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations around that, not only his injury, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a major part. Hopefully from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
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.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from three Australian summers in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the series.
He mentioned that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to recover fully 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All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the initial game as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches in any case. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
