The Australian skipper has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector the selector has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest set to start on November 21 in Perth.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about his chances of participating.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, not just the physical problem, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he will feature a major part. Hopefully starting in Perth. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India last month after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with setbacks in multiple past seasons causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the series.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the opening match as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches anyway. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for a short period, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
