Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series kicking off on the 21st of November in Perth.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, aside from the back issue, but further aspects," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. Ideally starting in Perth. If not, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in multiple past seasons causing him to miss three Australian summers in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the opening match as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games in any case. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
