The Australian skipper has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations involved, not only his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he's going to play a major part. Ideally it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series 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 setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from several home seasons in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the series.
He mentioned that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the national team for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the initial matches anyway. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
