Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief the selector has stated that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on the 21st of November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the prospects of taking part.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations around that, not only the back issue, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he will feature a key capacity. Ideally starting in Perth. If not, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
He mentioned that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the initial game as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games anyway. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
