The Australian skipper has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the prospects of being involved.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations at play, not only his injury, but other factors as well," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a key capacity. Ideally it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against India as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the first Test as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the initial matches in any case. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
