The Australian skipper has claimed 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about his chances of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and various factors involved, aside from the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a significant role. With luck from the opening match. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India recently after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of recurring issues, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the contest.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
