Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on 21 November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the prospects of taking part.
"We know that the window is narrowing and various factors at play, not just the back issue, but further aspects," he commented.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
He mentioned that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.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 Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the first Test as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs anyway. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
