The Australian skipper has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on 21 November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of participating.
"We know that the clock is ticking and there are permutations at play, aside from the back issue, but additional elements," he commented.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, we'll reassess."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of recurring issues, with recurrences in multiple past seasons leading to absences from several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the initial game as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
