The pace bowler has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations at play, not just the back issue, but other factors as well," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from several home seasons in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the series.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the initial game as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches in any case. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
