The pace bowler has secured 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest set to start on 21 November in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about his chances of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations around that, not just the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. Ideally from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss three Australian summers in a short span.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the contest.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, 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
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
