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The Australian chair of selectors George Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.

Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.

Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in Perth.

He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the prospects of participating.

"We're aware that time is getting short and various factors involved, not only the back issue, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.

"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. With luck starting in Perth. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."

Injury History

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

He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.

He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.

He mentioned that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test.

Contingency Plans

In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.

Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of soreness in his side.

Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."

"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.

"He was only going to play the initial matches in any case. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for a short period, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."

Fixture Details

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