Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian selection chief the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches set to start on the 21st of November in Perth.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of participating.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations around that, not just his injury, but additional elements," he commented.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. Hopefully it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
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 lower back issue.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from three Australian summers in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to make the squad for the Ashes.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their limited-overs matches against India as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the first Test as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the initial matches anyway. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
