Pat Cummins has secured 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chair of selectors the selector has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on the 21st of November in Perth.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of participating.
"We know that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, aside from the back issue, but additional elements," he commented.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he's going to play a significant role. With luck from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against India as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and stated that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
