Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian selection chief the selector has stated that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches set to start on the 21st of November in Perth.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about his chances of participating.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and there are permutations involved, aside from the physical problem, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he will feature a major part. Ideally from the opening match. If not, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from several home seasons in a short span.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but conceded it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches anyway. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
