🔗 Share this article

Australia's chief selector Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry.

Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.

Initial reports from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in Western Australia.

He revealed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the likelihood of participating.

"We know that the clock is ticking and various factors at play, not only the back issue, but other factors as well," he commented.

"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he will feature a major part. Ideally it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll adjust."

Injury History

Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.

There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in multiple past seasons forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.

Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.

Bailey noted that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the initial match.

Backup Options

Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.

The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against India as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.

He labeled it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, 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 opening match as an dual-role player," he elaborated.

"He was only going to play the starting games anyway. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for another day, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."

Fixture Details

The Historic Rivalry

21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026