The Australian skipper has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian selection chief the selector has declared that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on November 21 in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not only his injury, but further aspects," he commented.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he's going to play a major part. With luck from the opening match. If not, we'll reassess."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the series.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
