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Pat Cummins Set to Play a Major Role in Iconic Rivalry

Test match action

The pace bowler has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.

Australia's chief selector George Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's historic rivalry.

Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.

Previous updates from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series set to start on November 21 in Perth.

He revealed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of being involved.

"We know that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not just the physical problem, but additional elements," the selector added.

"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."

Previous Setbacks

Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.

There is a track record of back injuries, with setbacks in multiple past seasons causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.

The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the contest.

He mentioned that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the opener.

Backup Options

In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.

Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.

Bailey described it as a "slight concern and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."

"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.

"He was only going to play the first two ODIs regardless. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."

Series Schedule

Australia vs England: The Ashes

21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026

The writer

Joshua Simpson

Elena Vance is a seasoned business strategist and innovation consultant with over 15 years of experience in tech startups and corporate transformation.

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