The pace bowler has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations around that, not just the physical problem, but additional elements," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the contest.
Bailey noted that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs in any case. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
