Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series set to start on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that time is getting short and there are permutations at play, not only the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. With luck starting in Perth. If not, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy 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 recovery but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against India as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the first Test as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games in any case. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
