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The Australian selection chief Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming Ashes series.

Speculation had been growing that Cummins might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.

Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches set to start on 21 November in the WACA.

Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the prospects of taking part.

"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not only the physical problem, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.

"It's positive. There's strong faith that he will feature a major part. Hopefully starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll adjust."

Injury History

He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.

There is a track record of spinal problems, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.

Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the Ashes.

Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.

Contingency Plans

If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.

Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.

The selector characterized it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."

"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an dual-role player," he elaborated.

"He was only going to play the initial matches anyway. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for another day, we opted to approach this more conservatively."

Series Schedule

The Historic Rivalry

21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026