Pat Cummins has secured 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector the selector has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on the 21st of November in Perth.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about his chances of taking part.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, aside from his injury, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with recurrences in multiple past seasons leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the first Test as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
