The Australian skipper has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on 21 November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the likelihood of participating.
"We know that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, not only the back issue, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a significant role. Ideally it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India recently after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the series.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and confirmed that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the opening match as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the starting games in any case. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for a short period, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
