The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest kicking off on the 21st of November in the WACA.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"We know that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations around that, not just the back issue, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he's going to play a major part. With luck starting in Perth. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand recently after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against India as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the first Test as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the initial matches regardless. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for another day, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
