Pat Cummins has claimed 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the prospects of participating.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations at play, not just the physical problem, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he's going to play a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of back injuries, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green 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.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
