The pace bowler has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that Cummins might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the prospects of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and there are permutations involved, not only his injury, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a major part. Ideally from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of back injuries, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons leading to absences from three Australian summers in a short span.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.
He mentioned that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against India as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
