Australia's captain Set to Play a Major Role in the Ashes

Australia's chair of selectors the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's historic rivalry.

Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.

Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series kicking off on November 21 in Perth.

He revealed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the likelihood 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. There's strong faith that he's going to play a major part. Ideally starting in Perth. If not, we'll reassess."

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.

There is a track record of recurring issues, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in four years.

The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the Ashes.

The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the initial match.

Contingency Plans

Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.

All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.

He labeled it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."

"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.

"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games anyway. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."

Fixture Details

Australia vs England: The Ashes

21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026