Pat Cummins Set to Play a Major Role in Ashes Series
The pace bowler has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector the selector has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the likelihood of being involved.
"We know that the window is narrowing and there are permutations at play, not only his injury, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a key capacity. Ideally it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from three Australian summers in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the series.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against India as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the opening match as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches in any case. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for another day, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
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The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
