Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector the selector has stated that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series set to start on November 21 in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the prospects of participating.
"We know that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not just the physical problem, but additional elements," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he will feature a key capacity. With luck starting in Perth. If not, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss several home seasons in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the opener.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and stated that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the first Test as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches in any case. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
