Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors the selector has stated that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series kicking off on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the likelihood of participating.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, not only the physical problem, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he's going to play a significant role. With luck from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the series.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
