The pace bowler has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches set to start on November 21 in the WACA.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the prospects of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, not only his injury, but further aspects," he commented.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he's going to play a significant role. Hopefully from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of recurring issues, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
He mentioned that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and stated that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games regardless. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for another day, we opted to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
