Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the prospects of taking part.
"It's clear that time is getting short and multiple considerations around that, not only the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he's going to play a key capacity. With luck starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of back injuries, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and confirmed that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the initial game as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches in any case. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for a short period, we opted to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
