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Australia's chair of selectors the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.

There were concerns that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.

Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on the 21st of November in the WACA.

He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the prospects of participating.

"We know that the clock is ticking and there are permutations around that, not only the physical problem, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.

"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. With luck starting in Perth. If not, we'll adjust."

Injury History

Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lower back issue.

There is a track record of spinal problems, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.

He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.

He mentioned that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but conceded it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the opener.

Alternative Arrangements

In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.

The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against India as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.

The selector characterized it as a "small issue and confirmed that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."

"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.

"His involvement was limited to the starting games in any case. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."

Fixture Details

The Ashes: Australia v England

21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026