🔗 Share this article The fast bowler Expected to Feature a Major Role in Ashes Series The pace bowler has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average. Australia's chair of selectors the selector has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's historic rivalry. Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him. Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest set to start on the 21st of November in the WACA. He revealed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about his chances of participating. "We know that the clock is ticking and various factors at play, not just the back issue, but additional elements," he commented. "The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, we'll reassess." Previous Setbacks Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress. He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period. The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the contest. He mentioned that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test. Alternative Arrangements If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership. Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue. Bailey described it as a "slight concern and stated that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl." "Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an all-rounder," Bailey explained. "Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches anyway. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively." Series Schedule The Historic Rivalry 21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026