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The Australian selection chief George Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.

There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.

Earlier indications from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series set to start on the 21st of November in Western Australia.

Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the likelihood of participating.

"We know that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.

"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, then we'll pick it up."

Past Concerns

The captain missed the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.

He has a history of spinal problems, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons leading to absences from several home seasons in a short span.

He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the Ashes.

Bailey noted that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the initial match.

Backup Options

In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.

The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.

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

"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the first Test as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.

"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches in any case. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."

Series Schedule

The Ashes: Australia v England

21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026