🔗 Share this article The fast bowler Poised for a Significant Contribution in Ashes Series The Australian skipper has secured 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10. Australia's selection chief Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming Ashes series. Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed. Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on November 21 in Western Australia. The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part. "We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not just his injury, but additional elements," he commented. "We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he's going to play a major part. With luck it's the first Test. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up." Injury History Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back. There is a track record of recurring issues, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from three Australian summers in a limited period. Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest. He mentioned that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the first Test. Backup Options In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership. All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against India as a safety move because of soreness in his side. The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs." "Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained. "His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy." Series Schedule The Ashes: Australia v England From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026