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The Australian chair of selectors George Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.

Rumors had circulated that Cummins might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.

Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest set to start on 21 November in the WACA.

Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about his chances of being involved.

"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations around that, aside from the back issue, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.

"It's positive. There's strong faith that he will feature a major part. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."

Injury History

Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lower back issue.

Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.

Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the contest.

He mentioned that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.

Backup Options

Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.

All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.

The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."

"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.

"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches in any case. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."

Series Schedule

The Historic Rivalry

21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026