Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian selection chief the selector has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on 21 November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the prospects of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations around that, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from several home seasons in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games regardless. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
