The pace bowler has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on 21 November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the prospects of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not only his injury, but further aspects," he commented.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he's going to play a significant role. Ideally from the opening match. If not, we'll reassess."
Injury History
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in multiple past seasons forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the Ashes.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the initial game as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs regardless. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
