Australia's captain Expected to Feature a Significant Contribution in Ashes Series

Australia's chief selector the selector has declared that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry.

There were concerns that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.

Initial reports from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on the 21st of November in the WACA.

He revealed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of being involved.

"We're aware that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations at play, not only the physical problem, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.

"It's positive. There's strong faith that he's going to play a major part. Hopefully it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."

Injury History

He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand recently after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.

There is a track record of back injuries, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in four years.

Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.

He mentioned that he did not know 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.

Alternative Arrangements

In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.

The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.

Bailey described it as a "slight concern and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."

"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.

"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs anyway. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."

Match Calendar

The Ashes: Australia v England

21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026