Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest set to start on the 21st of November in the WACA.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and there are permutations at play, not just his injury, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of back injuries, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss three Australian summers in a short span.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.
Bailey noted that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned 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 take part for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the starting games regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
