Pat Cummins has claimed 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches set to start on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, aside from the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a major part. Ideally starting in Perth. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs regardless. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
