The Australian skipper has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian selection chief the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches kicking off on the 21st of November in Perth.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the prospects of being involved.
"We know that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not just his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a key capacity. With luck starting in Perth. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss three Australian summers in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the series.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the initial game as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for another day, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
