Pat Cummins has taken 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about his chances of participating.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations around that, not only the back issue, but other factors as well," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. If not, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the first Test as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs regardless. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
