Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the likelihood of being involved.
"We know that the clock is ticking and various factors involved, aside from the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a major part. Ideally it's the first Test. If not, we'll reassess."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of back injuries, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and stated that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the initial game as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
