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Pat Cummins Poised for a Key Part in Iconic Rivalry

Australian cricket captain

The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.

Australia's chief selector George Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry.

There were concerns that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.

Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series kicking off on 21 November in Perth.

The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of taking part.

"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations at play, not just the back issue, but further aspects," he commented.

"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he will feature a major part. With luck from the opening match. If not, we'll reassess."

Injury History

The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.

He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.

Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the series.

He mentioned that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the opener.

Alternative Arrangements

In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.

The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against India as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.

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."

"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.

"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back 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

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