Pat Cummins has claimed 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series kicking off on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of taking part.
"We know that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, not just his injury, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. Ideally from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss three Australian summers in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the series.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the national team for their one-day international series against India as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
