Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series kicking off on 21 November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of taking part.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations at play, aside from the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a key capacity. With luck starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from several home seasons in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the Ashes.
He mentioned that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and confirmed that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the first Test as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games anyway. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
