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The Australian chair of selectors the selector has declared that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.

Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.

Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on 21 November in Perth.

Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the prospects of being involved.

"It's clear that time is getting short and various factors involved, not just the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.

"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he will feature a key capacity. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."

Past Concerns

The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.

There is a track record of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss three Australian summers in a short span.

He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the contest.

He mentioned that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.

Alternative Arrangements

In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.

The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the national team for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.

The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."

"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.

"His involvement was limited to the initial matches regardless. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."

Fixture Details

Australia vs England: The Ashes

21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026