Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on 21 November in Perth.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the prospects of participating.
"We know that the clock is ticking and various factors involved, aside from the physical problem, but further aspects," the selector added.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. With luck from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India last month after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of back injuries, with recurrences in multiple past seasons forcing him out of three Australian summers in four years.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the contest.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against India as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "small issue and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the opening match as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
