Pat Cummins has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has declared that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the prospects of participating.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations at play, not only the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he's going to play a major part. With luck it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of three Australian summers in a short span.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against India as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the opening match as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for a short period, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
