The pace bowler has secured 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in Perth.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the likelihood of being involved.
"We're aware that time is getting short and various factors around that, not just the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"It's positive. 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
The captain missed the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in a short span.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
