Pat Cummins has secured 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest kicking off on the 21st of November in Perth.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the prospects of taking part.
"It's clear that time is getting short and multiple considerations involved, not just his injury, but additional elements," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a major part. Ideally it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the first Test as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
