Pat Cummins has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector the selector has confirmed that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's historic rivalry.
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 Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches set to start on November 21 in Western Australia.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the prospects of being involved.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations involved, not only the back issue, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he's going to play a significant role. With luck from the opening match. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of recurring issues, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their limited-overs matches against India as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the first Test as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs anyway. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for a short period, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
