Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector the selector has declared that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series set to start on 21 November in Perth.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the prospects of participating.
"We know that the window is narrowing and various factors at play, not only his injury, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he will feature a major part. Ideally from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the national team for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned 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.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
