The pace bowler has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest kicking off on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of participating.
"We know that the window is narrowing and various factors at play, not only the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he will feature a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India last month after scans revealed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the Ashes.
He mentioned that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the first Test as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games in any case. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
