Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief the selector has declared that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches kicking off on the 21st of November in Perth.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the likelihood of being involved.
"We know that the clock is ticking and there are permutations involved, not just his injury, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of recurring issues, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss three Australian summers in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the contest.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play 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 opening match as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
