Pat Cummins has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series kicking off on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the likelihood of participating.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations involved, aside from the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss three Australian summers in four years.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the first Test as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for another day, we opted to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
