Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Perth.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the prospects of being involved.
"It's clear that time is getting short and there are permutations involved, not only the back issue, but further aspects," he commented.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he's going to play a key capacity. Ideally from the opening match. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the contest.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches anyway. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
