Pat Cummins has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector the selector has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest set to start on November 21 in Perth.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the prospects of taking part.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations around that, aside from the physical problem, but additional elements," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a major part. With luck from the opening match. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the contest.
The selector indicated that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the first Test as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for a short period, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
