The Australian skipper has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in Perth.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of taking part.
"We know that the clock is ticking and there are permutations involved, not only the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of recurring issues, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from several home seasons in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.
He mentioned that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against India as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and confirmed that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches in any case. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
