Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chief selector the selector has stated that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches set to start on the 21st of November in Perth.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and there are permutations at play, not just the back issue, but other factors as well," he commented.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he will feature a significant role. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with setbacks in multiple past seasons leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the opening match as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches in any case. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, we opted to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
