The Australian skipper has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chief selector the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches kicking off on the 21st of November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of taking part.
"It's clear that time is getting short and multiple considerations around that, not only his injury, but further aspects," he commented.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he will feature a major part. With luck from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the series.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the starting games anyway. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, we opted to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
