Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the prospects of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations around that, not just his injury, but further aspects," he commented.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he will feature a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of back injuries, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from several home seasons in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs regardless. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
