Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in Western Australia.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the prospects of participating.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations around that, aside from his injury, but additional elements," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. With luck from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss three Australian summers in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against India as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the first Test as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games regardless. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
