The Australian skipper has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector the selector has stated that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that Cummins might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches set to start on the 21st of November in Perth.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and various factors involved, not only the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully it's the first Test. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in multiple past seasons leading to absences from several home seasons in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper 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 soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
