The Australian skipper has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on 21 November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"We know that time is getting short and multiple considerations around that, aside from the physical problem, but further aspects," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he will feature a major part. Ideally it's the first Test. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of back injuries, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss three Australian summers in a short span.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the national team for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
