Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the prospects of being involved.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, aside from his injury, but further aspects," he commented.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the series.
Bailey noted that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and stated that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the starting games regardless. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for a short period, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
