The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on 21 November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"We know that the clock is ticking and there are permutations at play, aside from his injury, but other factors as well," he commented.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. Ideally from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the initial game as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs regardless. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
