Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief George Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches set to start on November 21 in Western Australia.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations around that, aside from the back issue, but further aspects," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a key capacity. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of recurring issues, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the opening match as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs in any case. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for a short period, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
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