The pace bowler has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the prospects of participating.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, aside from his injury, but further aspects," he commented.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he's going to play a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. If not, we'll adjust."
Injury History
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of recurring issues, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of three Australian summers in four years.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against India as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs anyway. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
