Pat Cummins has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector the selector has declared that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the prospects of participating.
"We know that time is getting short and various factors at play, not just the physical problem, but other factors as well," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from several home seasons in a limited period.
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 the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the national team for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the initial game as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, we opted to take a cautious route."
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The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
