Pat Cummins has taken 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches set to start on 21 November in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the prospects of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, not just the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he will feature a significant role. With luck starting in Perth. If not, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India recently after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with setbacks in multiple past seasons causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for another day, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
