The fast bowler Set to Play a Major Role in the Ashes

Australian cricket captain — The pace bowler has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.

Australia's chair of selectors the selector has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming Ashes series.

Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.

Initial reports from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches set to start on November 21 in Western Australia.

The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of participating.

"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations involved, not only his injury, but additional elements," he commented.

"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, we'll reassess."

Previous Setbacks

The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lower back issue.

There is a track record of back injuries, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.

Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.

The selector indicated that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.

Backup Options

If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.

Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.

Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."

"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," he elaborated.

"He was only going to play the starting games regardless. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."