Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's chair of selectors the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches set to start on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the likelihood of participating.
"We know that the window is narrowing and there are permutations around that, not only his injury, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India recently after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their one-day international series against India as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the initial game as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the initial matches regardless. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
