The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches set to start on the 21st of November in the WACA.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"We know that time is getting short and multiple considerations around that, not just his injury, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. Ideally it's the first Test. If not, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
He mentioned that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against India as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the initial game as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
