Pat Cummins has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on 21 November in Western Australia.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the likelihood of participating.
"We're aware that time is getting short and various factors involved, aside from his injury, but other factors as well," he commented.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he's going to play a key capacity. Ideally it's the first Test. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after scans revealed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of three Australian summers in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the opening match as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for a short period, we opted to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
