Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches kicking off on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and there are permutations at play, not only his injury, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of spinal problems, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "small issue and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the first Test as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
