Pat Cummins has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief the selector has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series kicking off on November 21 in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about his chances of taking part.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not only the physical problem, but additional elements," he commented.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he's going to play a significant role. Hopefully from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India recently after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the contest.
The selector indicated that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the national team for their limited-overs matches against India as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and stated that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for another day, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
