Pat Cummins has taken 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors George Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series set to start on 21 November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations involved, aside from the physical problem, but additional elements," he commented.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. Ideally it's the first Test. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
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 limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against India as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
