Pat Cummins has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chief selector the selector has declared that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest set to start on 21 November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of taking part.
"We know that time is getting short and there are permutations around that, aside from his injury, but further aspects," he commented.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he will feature a significant role. Ideally it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
He mentioned that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the initial matches in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
