Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector the selector has declared that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest set to start on the 21st of November in Perth.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about his chances of participating.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations at play, not just the physical problem, but additional elements," he commented.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a key capacity. With luck from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts 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 "getting tight" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their limited-overs matches against India as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the initial matches regardless. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
