Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about his chances of being involved.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations involved, not only his injury, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India last month after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of back injuries, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the initial game as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games in any case. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
