Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors the selector has confirmed that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches set to start on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about his chances of taking part.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations around that, not just the physical problem, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a major part. Hopefully starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand last month after scans revealed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss three Australian summers in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the Ashes.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against India as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for a short period, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
