The pace bowler has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector George Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest set to start on the 21st of November in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, not just the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. Hopefully from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Injury History
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of spinal problems, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss three Australian summers in a short span.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the first Test as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the starting games regardless. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
