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Australia's chair of selectors 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 sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.

Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on November 21 in Western Australia.

The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about his chances of participating.

"It's clear that time is getting short and various factors involved, not only his injury, but additional elements," the selector added.

"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a major part. Ideally from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."

Previous Setbacks

He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.

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

The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the contest.

Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the opener.

Contingency Plans

If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.

Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against India as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.

Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."

"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the initial game as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.

"His involvement was limited to the starting games regardless. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."

Fixture Details

The Ashes: Australia v England

21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026