Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief the selector has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that Cummins might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on the 21st of November in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the prospects of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors involved, aside from his injury, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he will feature a significant role. With luck from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the national team for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and stated that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
