Pat Cummins Expected to Feature a Significant Contribution in Ashes Series
Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of participating.
"We know that time is getting short and various factors at play, not just the back issue, but other factors as well," he commented.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a major part. With luck starting in Perth. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the national team for their limited-overs matches against India as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches in any case. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
