The pace bowler has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief the selector has declared that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series set to start on the 21st of November in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the prospects of participating.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and various factors involved, not only the physical problem, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a significant role. With luck from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India recently after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
He mentioned that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the first Test as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the initial matches in any case. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
