Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on the 21st of November in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and various factors around that, not just the physical problem, but other factors as well," he commented.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he will feature a major part. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, we'll adjust."
Injury History
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in multiple past seasons causing him to miss several home seasons in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the contest.
He mentioned that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches in any case. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
