The Australian skipper has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors the selector has stated that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in the WACA.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the prospects of participating.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations involved, not just the physical problem, but other factors as well," he commented.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a key capacity. With luck from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.
The selector indicated that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games regardless. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
