Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches set to start on 21 November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of being involved.
"We know that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, not just the physical problem, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Injury History
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand recently after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with recurrences in multiple past seasons forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
He mentioned that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the national team for their ODI contests against India as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the first Test as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for another day, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
