Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on 21 November in Perth.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"It's clear that time is getting short and various factors involved, not only the physical problem, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he will feature a significant role. Hopefully it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of spinal problems, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of three Australian summers in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs in any case. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for another day, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
