Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated 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 whether he would play, with the Test matches set to start on 21 November in Perth.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the prospects of being involved.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations at play, not just his injury, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of back injuries, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons leading to absences from three Australian summers in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "small issue and confirmed that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
