The pace bowler has claimed 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest set to start on the 21st of November in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about his chances of participating.
"We know that the clock is ticking and there are permutations at play, not just his injury, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he will feature a significant role. Hopefully from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against India as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs anyway. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for a short period, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
