The pace bowler has secured 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest kicking off on 21 November in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about his chances of participating.
"We know that the clock is ticking and various factors at play, aside from his injury, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a major part. Ideally starting in Perth. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after scans revealed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in multiple past seasons forcing him out of three Australian summers in four years.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the opening match as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games in any case. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for a short period, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
