Pat Cummins has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about his chances of participating.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and various factors around that, not only the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of back injuries, with setbacks in multiple past seasons causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against India as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and confirmed that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the opening match as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for a short period, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
