The Australian skipper has taken 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about his chances of taking part.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, aside from his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he will feature a significant role. With luck starting in Perth. If not, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons forcing him out of three Australian summers in a short span.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their limited-overs matches against India as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.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 domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the first Test as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the initial matches anyway. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
