Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on 21 November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about his chances of taking part.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and there are permutations involved, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," he commented.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand last month after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
He mentioned that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against India as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
