Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector George Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Perth.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and various factors at play, not only the physical problem, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, we'll adjust."
Injury History
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss three Australian summers in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort 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 first two ODIs in any case. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for another day, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
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