The pace bowler has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief the selector has declared that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series set to start on 21 November in the WACA.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"We know that time is getting short and multiple considerations involved, aside from the physical problem, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. With luck starting in Perth. If not, we'll reassess."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in multiple past seasons causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the contest.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against India as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games anyway. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
