Australia's captain Poised for a Major Role in the Ashes
The pace bowler has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series set to start on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of participating.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations involved, not only the physical problem, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he will feature a key capacity. Ideally from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Injury History
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the national team for their ODI contests against India as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the first Test as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
