The Australian skipper has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the prospects of being involved.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, aside from his injury, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. Ideally from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in multiple past seasons forcing him out of three Australian summers in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
He mentioned that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the initial game as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs anyway. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
