🔗 Share this article Pat Cummins Poised for a Major Role in Ashes Series Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average. Australia's chief selector the selector has declared that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming Ashes series. Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed. Previous updates from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on 21 November in Western Australia. The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about his chances of participating. "We know that the clock is ticking and various factors involved, not only the back issue, but further aspects," he commented. "We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a major part. With luck it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll reassess." Past Concerns He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after medical tests showed a lower back issue. Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a short span. The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the Ashes. He mentioned that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the initial match. Alternative Arrangements If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy. Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the national team for their one-day international series against India as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso. Bailey described it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling." "Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained. "He was only going to play the initial matches anyway. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we opted to take a cautious route." Fixture Details Australia vs England: The Ashes 21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026