Pat Cummins has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chief selector the selector has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest set to start on 21 November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of taking part.
"We know that the clock is ticking and there are permutations around that, not just the physical problem, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he will feature a major part. With luck it's the first Test. If not, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the Ashes.
He mentioned that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and stated that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the initial game as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games in any case. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
