The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on 21 November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the prospects of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and various factors involved, aside from his injury, but further aspects," he commented.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a key capacity. Ideally it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from three Australian summers in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the series.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "small issue and stated that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, 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 first Test as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the starting games in any case. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for another day, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
