Pat Cummins has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief George Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest set to start on the 21st of November in Perth.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, aside from the physical problem, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. With luck from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of recurring issues, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in a short span.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the series.
He mentioned that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the national team for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
