The Australian skipper has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that Cummins might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on November 21 in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the likelihood of participating.
"We know that the window is narrowing and various factors at play, not just the physical problem, but additional elements," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a major part. With luck starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
The captain missed the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India recently after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of back injuries, with recurrences in multiple past seasons leading to absences from three Australian summers in four years.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and stated that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
