Pat Cummins has claimed 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of participating.
"We know that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations around that, not just the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. Ideally it's the first Test. If not, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the Ashes.
He mentioned that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and stated that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games regardless. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
