Pat Cummins has taken 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief the selector has declared that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications 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 Perth.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of participating.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations involved, aside from his injury, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he will feature a major part. Ideally starting in Perth. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of back injuries, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from three Australian summers in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against India as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the starting games regardless. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
