The Australian skipper has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series set to start on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about his chances of taking part.
"We know that the window is narrowing and there are permutations involved, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. Ideally starting in Perth. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Injury History
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of back injuries, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss several home seasons in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.
He mentioned that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the national team for their one-day international series against India as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the first Test as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games in any case. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for a short period, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
