Pat Cummins has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series set to start on the 21st of November in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the prospects of taking part.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he will feature a significant role. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand recently after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the series.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and confirmed that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games in any case. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
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