The fast bowler Set to Play a Major Role in Ashes Series
The pace bowler has taken 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector George Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest set to start on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about his chances of being involved.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and various factors at play, not only his injury, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he will feature a major part. Hopefully it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand recently after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from three Australian summers in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against India as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches regardless. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026