Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the likelihood of taking part.
"It's clear that time is getting short and multiple considerations around that, aside from the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he will feature a key capacity. With luck from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from several home seasons in four years.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the series.
The selector indicated that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against India as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches in any case. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for a short period, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
