The Australian skipper has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series set to start on 21 November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about his chances of being involved.
"We know that the clock is ticking and various factors at play, aside from his injury, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he's going to play a major part. Hopefully starting in Perth. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in a short span.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the contest.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the starting games regardless. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
