The Australian skipper has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has declared that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches set to start on 21 November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and there are permutations at play, aside from the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a key capacity. With luck it's the first Test. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss three Australian summers in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the series.
He mentioned that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup 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 "small issue and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the opening match as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the starting games in any case. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for a short period, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
