The Australian skipper has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches set to start on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the prospects of being involved.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and there are permutations around that, aside from the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. With luck starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Injury History
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from three Australian summers in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the first Test as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the starting games in any case. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
