The pace bowler has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the prospects of being involved.
"We're aware that time is getting short and various factors involved, not just the physical problem, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he will feature a key capacity. Hopefully it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand recently after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the first Test as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches anyway. 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."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
