The Australian skipper has taken 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the likelihood of participating.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations involved, not just the back issue, but other factors as well," he commented.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of spinal problems, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "small issue and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the first Test as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, we opted to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
