Pat Cummins has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector George Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that Cummins might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series kicking off on November 21 in Perth.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of being involved.
"We know that the window is narrowing and there are permutations at play, aside from the physical problem, but further aspects," the selector added.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. With luck starting in Perth. If not, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in four years.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the initial game as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
