The Australian skipper has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief the selector has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series set to start on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the prospects of participating.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations involved, not only the back issue, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of back injuries, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the series.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the initial game as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
