Pat Cummins has taken 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has declared that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in Western Australia.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the prospects of participating.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and various factors at play, not just the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. Ideally from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the contest.
The selector indicated that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games regardless. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
