The Australian skipper has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches set to start on the 21st of November in Perth.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about his chances of participating.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and there are permutations involved, aside from the back issue, but further aspects," he commented.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he will feature a major part. Hopefully it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with setbacks in multiple past seasons leading to absences from three Australian summers in four years.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against India as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the starting games in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
