The Australian skipper has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector the selector has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the prospects of being involved.
"We know that time is getting short and multiple considerations involved, not only his injury, but additional elements," he commented.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of back injuries, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their limited-overs matches against India as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the starting games in any case. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for another day, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
