The Australian skipper has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
There were concerns that Cummins might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the prospects of taking part.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not just his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India last month after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with setbacks in multiple past seasons causing him to miss three Australian summers in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "small issue and stated that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the opening match as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games in any case. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for a short period, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
