Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations involved, not only his injury, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he will feature a major part. Ideally from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Injury History
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from three Australian summers in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the first Test as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs anyway. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
