The pace bowler has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches kicking off on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about his chances of participating.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations involved, aside from the physical problem, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he's going to play a key capacity. Hopefully from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from several home seasons in a short span.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to make the squad for the Ashes.
He mentioned that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs anyway. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for a short period, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
