The Australian skipper has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that Cummins might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations around that, aside from his injury, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. Ideally from the opening match. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of spinal problems, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons leading to absences from three Australian summers in four years.
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 rehabilitation but admitted it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and confirmed that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place 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 batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the initial matches in any case. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
