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The Australian chair of selectors the selector has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's England-Australia contest.

There were concerns that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.

Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on 21 November in Perth.

Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the prospects of taking part.

"We know that time is getting short and various factors involved, aside from the physical problem, but further aspects," the selector added.

"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he's going to play a major part. Ideally it's the first Test. If not, we'll adjust."

Past Concerns

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

He has a history of back injuries, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from several home seasons in a short span.

The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.

Bailey noted 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 regain fitness for the opener.

Backup Options

If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.

The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against India as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.

He labeled it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."

"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.

"His involvement was limited to the initial matches regardless. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."

Series Schedule

Australia vs England: The Ashes

21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026