The Australian skipper has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector the selector has stated that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest kicking off on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the likelihood of being involved.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he will feature a major part. Hopefully starting in Perth. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with recurrences in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in four years.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "small issue and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the initial game as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
