Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on 21 November in Perth.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the prospects of participating.
"We know that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, not just the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of recurring issues, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the series.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the initial game as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs regardless. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, we opted to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
