Pat Cummins has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors the selector has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the prospects of participating.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations around that, not just his injury, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. Ideally from the opening match. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss three Australian summers in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the national team for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
