The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps 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.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"We're aware that time is getting short and various factors involved, not only the physical problem, but additional elements," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. With luck starting in Perth. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the first Test as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the starting games anyway. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
