The Australian skipper has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on 21 November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the prospects of taking part.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and various factors involved, not just his injury, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he will feature a key capacity. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
The captain missed the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the initial game as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches anyway. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for a short period, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
