The Australian skipper has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector the selector has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth.
The selector shared 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 at play, not just his injury, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a major part. Hopefully from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of several home seasons in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the series.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the initial game as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for a short period, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
