Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in Perth.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the prospects of participating.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not only his injury, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. Hopefully it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of recurring issues, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and confirmed that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the initial game as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches anyway. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
