Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest kicking off on 21 November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the prospects of being involved.
"It's clear that time is getting short and there are permutations at play, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he's going to play a major part. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of spinal problems, with recurrences in multiple past seasons causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the first Test as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games in any case. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
