Pat Cummins has taken 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors the selector has declared that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the prospects of being involved.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations at play, aside from his injury, but further aspects," he commented.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss three Australian summers in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but conceded it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against India as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and confirmed that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the starting games regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for another day, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
