The Australian skipper has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that Cummins might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and there are permutations at play, not just the physical problem, but further aspects," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a major part. With luck from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the series.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the starting games anyway. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for a short period, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
