The Australian skipper has claimed 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors the selector has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that Cummins might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in Perth.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the prospects of participating.
"It's clear that time is getting short and multiple considerations involved, not just his injury, but further aspects," he commented.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a major part. Ideally starting in Perth. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of recurring issues, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of several home seasons in four years.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games anyway. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
