The Australian skipper has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on 21 November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of participating.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and various factors at play, not only the physical problem, but additional elements," he commented.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he's going to play a major part. Hopefully from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of spinal problems, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of several home seasons in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the national team for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the first Test as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the starting games anyway. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for a short period, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
