The Australian skipper has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest kicking off on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"We're aware that time is getting short and there are permutations involved, aside from the physical problem, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he's going to play a major part. Ideally from the opening match. If not, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India last month after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the series.
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 regain fitness for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against India as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the initial game as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
