Pat Cummins has secured 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief George Bailey has declared that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on 21 November in Western Australia.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the prospects of participating.
"We're aware that time is getting short and various factors around that, not only the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. With luck from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of recurring issues, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the series.
Bailey noted that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against India as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the first Test as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games in any case. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for another day, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
