Pat Cummins has taken 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in the WACA.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the prospects of participating.
"We know that the window is narrowing and various factors involved, aside from his injury, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he's going to play a significant role. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India last month after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of three Australian summers in four years.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation 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
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against India as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and stated that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the opening match as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games anyway. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
