Pat Cummins has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on the 21st of November in Perth.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the prospects of participating.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations involved, not only the back issue, but additional elements," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a key capacity. Ideally it's the first Test. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India last month after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with setbacks in multiple past seasons causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the contest.
He mentioned that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and mentioned that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
