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Australia's chief selector the selector has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's Ashes series.

Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.

Initial reports from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches set to start on November 21 in Perth.

The selector shared that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the likelihood of taking part.

"We're aware that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations at play, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," he commented.

"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a key capacity. With luck it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."

Past Concerns

Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India last month after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.

There is a track record of spinal problems, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss three Australian summers in four years.

He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the contest.

He mentioned that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the first Test.

Alternative Arrangements

Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.

The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against India as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.

The selector characterized it as a "small issue and confirmed that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."

"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.

"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs regardless. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for a short period, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."

Series Schedule

The Ashes: Australia v England

21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026