Pat Cummins has secured 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's chair of selectors George Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, not just his injury, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he will feature a key capacity. Hopefully from the opening match. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the opener.
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Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
