Pat Cummins has secured 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series kicking off on 21 November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of taking part.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations around that, not just the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, we'll adjust."
Injury History
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India last month after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of several home seasons in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.
Bailey noted that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the first Test as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
