Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on the 21st of November in the WACA.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about his chances of taking part.
"We know that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations at play, not just the physical problem, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a major part. With luck from the opening match. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand last month after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in multiple past seasons leading to absences from several home seasons in a short span.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the series.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and stated that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games regardless. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
