Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors the selector has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest set to start on 21 November in the WACA.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the prospects of taking part.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations at play, not just his injury, but other factors as well," he commented.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from three Australian summers in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan 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 comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the first Test as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches in any case. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
