Pat Cummins has claimed 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector the selector has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of participating.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, not just the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a major part. With luck starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India recently after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of spinal problems, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against India as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the starting games regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
