The Australian skipper has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of being involved.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and various factors at play, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he will feature a significant role. Ideally it's the first Test. If not, we'll reassess."
Injury History
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include 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 ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.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 Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the initial game as an dual-role player," 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 24 more hours, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
