Pat Cummins has secured 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on the 21st of November in Perth.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the prospects of participating.
"We know that the clock is ticking and various factors at play, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he will feature a major part. Hopefully it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from several home seasons in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the series.
The selector indicated that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the national team for their limited-overs matches against India as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and stated that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the opening match as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games anyway. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
