Pat Cummins has taken 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on the 21st of November in Perth.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the prospects of taking part.
"We know that the window is narrowing and various factors at play, not just his injury, but additional elements," the selector added.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India recently after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of back injuries, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss three Australian summers in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
He mentioned that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the first Test as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games regardless. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
