Pat Cummins has claimed 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Perth.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the likelihood of participating.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and there are permutations at play, not just the physical problem, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a major part. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the first Test as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs anyway. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
