Pat Cummins has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest set to start on 21 November in Western Australia.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the prospects of taking part.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and various factors involved, not just the back issue, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a key capacity. With luck starting in Perth. If not, we'll reassess."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand recently after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss three Australian summers in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against India as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
