Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that Cummins might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of taking part.
"We know that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India recently after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from three Australian summers in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the contest.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the initial game as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches in any case. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for a short period, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
