Pat Cummins has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about his chances of taking part.
"It's clear that time is getting short and various factors at play, aside from the physical problem, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he will feature a major part. Ideally it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games regardless. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
