The Australian skipper has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series kicking off on the 21st of November in the WACA.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about his chances of taking part.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and there are permutations involved, not just the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a major part. With luck from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
The captain missed the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
