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Australia's chief selector George Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's England-Australia contest.

Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.

Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.

Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about his chances of being involved.

"It's clear that the window is narrowing and various factors at play, aside from the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.

"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. Ideally starting in Perth. If not, then we'll pick it up."

Injury History

Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India last month after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.

There is a track record of recurring issues, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.

Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.

The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.

Alternative Arrangements

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

The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.

Bailey described it as a "slight concern and stated that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."

"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the first Test as an dual-role player," he elaborated.

"His involvement was limited to the starting games regardless. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."

Fixture Details

The Historic Rivalry

21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026