Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that Cummins might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of participating.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, aside from his injury, but further aspects," he commented.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he will feature a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with setbacks in multiple past seasons leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches anyway. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for another day, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
