The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors the selector has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations at play, aside from the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. With luck starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of back injuries, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in a short span.
Cummins stated 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 Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against India as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the opening match as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs regardless. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
