Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on November 21 in Western Australia.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"It's clear that time is getting short and various factors around that, not only the back issue, but additional elements," he commented.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. With luck starting in Perth. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after scans revealed 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.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to 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, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
