The Australian skipper has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in Western Australia.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the prospects of participating.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and there are permutations at play, aside from the back issue, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he will feature a major part. With luck from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games 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 flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss three Australian summers in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy 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 acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their limited-overs matches against India as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games regardless. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
