🔗 Share this article Pat Cummins Poised for a Key Part in Iconic Rivalry Pat Cummins has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average. The Australian selection chief the selector has declared that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry. Speculation had been growing that Cummins might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved. Initial reports from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches set to start on the 21st of November in Perth. The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about his chances of taking part. "We know that time is getting short and various factors involved, not only the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added. "We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he will feature a key capacity. Ideally it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll adjust." Past Concerns He was sidelined the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after scans revealed a lower back issue. Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a short span. The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the Ashes. Bailey noted that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the initial match. Alternative Arrangements In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side. The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against India as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso. The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl." "Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed. "Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games anyway. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route." Fixture Details The Historic Rivalry 21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026