Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian selection chief the selector has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches set to start on the 21st of November in the WACA.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about his chances of participating.
"We know that the clock is ticking and there are permutations at play, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a major part. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand recently after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in multiple past seasons leading to absences from several home seasons in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the national team for their limited-overs matches against India as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games anyway. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
