The pace bowler has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on 21 November in Western Australia.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about his chances of participating.
"We know that the clock is ticking and there are permutations at play, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he will feature a major part. Hopefully from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from three Australian summers in four years.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the first Test as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs anyway. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for a short period, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
