The Australian skipper has claimed 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and there are permutations involved, aside from the physical problem, but further aspects," he commented.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he's going to play a key capacity. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of spinal problems, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side 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 "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
