Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chair of selectors the selector has declared that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches set to start on 21 November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations involved, not only the physical problem, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he will feature a key capacity. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with setbacks in multiple past seasons leading to absences from three Australian summers in four years.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games regardless. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for another day, we opted to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
