The pace bowler has claimed 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series kicking off on 21 November in Western Australia.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the prospects of being involved.
"It's clear that time is getting short and multiple considerations involved, not only the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he's going to play a key capacity. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand last month after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of three Australian summers in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the contest.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the initial game as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games anyway. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for a short period, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
