Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the prospects of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations around that, not just the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he's going to play a key capacity. Hopefully it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
He mentioned that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the opening match as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
