Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector the selector has stated that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's Ashes series.
There were concerns that Cummins might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on November 21 in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the prospects of participating.
"We know that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations involved, not only the physical problem, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a significant role. With luck starting in Perth. If not, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with recurrences in multiple past seasons causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the series.
He mentioned that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the initial game as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games regardless. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay 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
