The Australian skipper has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series kicking off on November 21 in Western Australia.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"It's clear that time is getting short and there are permutations at play, aside from the physical problem, but other factors as well," he commented.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a major part. Ideally from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Injury History
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand recently after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the series.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games regardless. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
