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Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming England-Australia contest.

Speculation had been growing that Cummins might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.

Previous updates from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest kicking off on the 21st of November in Western Australia.

The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about his chances of being involved.

"It's clear that time is getting short and various factors around that, not just the physical problem, but further aspects," he commented.

"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. Ideally from the opening match. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."

Past Concerns

The captain missed the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.

Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from three Australian summers in a limited period.

He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the contest.

The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the opener.

Alternative Arrangements

Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.

All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against India as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.

Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."

"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the first Test as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.

"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."

Match Calendar

Australia vs England: The Ashes

21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026