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The Australian selection chief Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming 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.

Previous updates from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in the WACA.

He revealed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the likelihood of taking part.

"It's clear that the window is narrowing and various factors around that, aside from the back issue, but additional elements," he commented.

"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he's going to play a significant role. With luck starting in Perth. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."

Injury History

He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.

Previous incidents include of back injuries, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.

The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the contest.

The selector indicated that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.

Backup Options

If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.

All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against India as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.

He labeled it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."

"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.

"He was only going to play the first two ODIs regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."

Match Calendar

Australia vs England: The Ashes

21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026