Pat Cummins has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
There were concerns that Cummins might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches set to start on 21 November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the likelihood of being involved.
"It's clear that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, not just his injury, but additional elements," the selector added.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he will feature a major part. With luck it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the series.
The selector indicated that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
