The pace bowler has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations at play, not just the physical problem, but additional elements," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. Ideally from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and confirmed that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches regardless. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
