Pat Cummins has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on the 21st of November in the WACA.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the prospects of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and various factors at play, aside from the physical problem, but additional elements," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a key capacity. With luck from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand recently after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of spinal problems, with recurrences in multiple past seasons causing him to miss three Australian summers in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the series.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the first Test as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
