Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on 21 November in the WACA.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about his chances of participating.
"We know that the window is narrowing and various factors at play, aside from the physical problem, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. If not, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with setbacks in multiple past seasons causing him to miss three Australian summers in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the series.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the initial game as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches anyway. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
