Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about his chances of participating.
"We know that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, aside from his injury, but additional elements," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a major part. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand recently after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from several home seasons in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the Ashes.
He mentioned that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and mentioned that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the first Test as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs in any case. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for another day, we opted to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
