The pace bowler has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series kicking off on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the prospects of taking part.
"We know that the window is narrowing and various factors around that, aside from the physical problem, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. With luck starting in Perth. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Injury History
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted 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 first Test.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and confirmed that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs regardless. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
