The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
The Australian selection chief the selector has declared that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on November 21 in Western Australia.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, aside from his injury, but additional elements," he commented.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a key capacity. With luck starting in Perth. If not, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand recently after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with recurrences in multiple past seasons leading to absences from three Australian summers in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs regardless. How he handles 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
