Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors the selector has declared that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches set to start on November 21 in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the prospects of participating.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations involved, aside from the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a major part. With luck it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in a short span.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the Ashes.
He mentioned that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green 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.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
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