The Australian skipper has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian chair of selectors the selector has stated that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of participating.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations at play, not just the back issue, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. With luck from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India recently after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the Ashes.
He mentioned that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the first Test as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games anyway. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
