The pace bowler has taken 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches kicking off on November 21 in the WACA.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the likelihood of taking part.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and there are permutations involved, aside from the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against India as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the first Test as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games regardless. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
