The pace bowler has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest set to start on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of taking part.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and there are permutations at play, not only the back issue, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he's going to play a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.
He mentioned that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"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," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs regardless. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
