Pat Cummins has taken 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has declared that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series set to start on 21 November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the prospects of participating.
"We know that the clock is ticking and various factors involved, not just the physical problem, but other factors as well," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed 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 short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against India as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and confirmed that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the first Test as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches anyway. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
