Pat Cummins has secured 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief the selector has confirmed that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the prospects of participating.
"We know that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, not just the physical problem, but other factors as well," he commented.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he's going to play a major part. Hopefully from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in multiple past seasons leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against India as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for a short period, we opted to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
