Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on 21 November in the WACA.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of being involved.
"It's clear that time is getting short and various factors around that, aside from the back issue, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he will feature a key capacity. Ideally it's the first Test. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of back injuries, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of three Australian summers in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
