Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series set to start on 21 November in Western Australia.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of being involved.
"We know that time is getting short and there are permutations involved, aside from the physical problem, but additional elements," he commented.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he will feature a significant role. Ideally it's the first Test. If not, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
He has a history of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the first Test as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games anyway. 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."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
