The Australian skipper has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the prospects of taking part.
"We know that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, aside from the back issue, but additional elements," he commented.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a significant role. Ideally it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that he did not know 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
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the initial game as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
