Pat Cummins has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series set to start on 21 November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, not just his injury, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he will feature a major part. Hopefully starting in Perth. Otherwise, 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 scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the contest.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against India as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and stated that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches anyway. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
