Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on November 21 in Perth.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the prospects of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations involved, aside from his injury, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he's going to play a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. If not, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of recurring issues, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the initial game as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the starting games anyway. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
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