Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series set to start on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"We know that the window is narrowing and there are permutations at play, not only his injury, but other factors as well," he commented.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss three Australian summers in four years.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to make the squad for the contest.
The selector indicated that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
