Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors the selector has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about his chances of being involved.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and there are permutations at play, not only his injury, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he's going to play a key capacity. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of recurring issues, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from three Australian summers in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
He mentioned that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against India as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the initial game as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs anyway. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
