Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series kicking off on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about his chances of participating.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and there are permutations involved, aside from the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in 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 both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss three Australian summers in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the contest.
The selector indicated that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against India as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and confirmed that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games anyway. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
