Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian selection chief the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches set to start on November 21 in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of being involved.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, aside from the physical problem, but additional elements," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he's going to play a key capacity. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of back injuries, with setbacks in multiple past seasons leading to absences from several home seasons in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the initial game as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs anyway. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
