The Australian skipper has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief the selector has declared that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series set to start on the 21st of November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about his chances of being involved.
"It's clear that time is getting short and there are permutations involved, aside from the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he's going to play a significant role. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India last month after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in multiple past seasons forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and stated that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the initial game as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the initial matches anyway. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
