The pace bowler has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief the selector has confirmed that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches set to start on 21 November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about his chances of taking part.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors at play, aside from the physical problem, but further aspects," he commented.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he's going to play a key capacity. With luck from the opening match. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India recently after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against India as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches anyway. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
