Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chair of selectors the selector has stated that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the prospects of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and there are permutations around that, aside from the back issue, but further aspects," he commented.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he will feature a key capacity. Ideally starting in Perth. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand recently after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against India as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the opening match as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs regardless. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
