The Australian skipper has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches set to start on 21 November in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of participating.
"We know that the clock is ticking and there are permutations around that, aside from the physical problem, but additional elements," 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."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India recently after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss three Australian summers in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against India as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the opening match as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games regardless. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
