The pace bowler has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors the selector has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on November 21 in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and there are permutations around that, not only the physical problem, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a key capacity. Ideally it's the first Test. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand recently after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
The selector indicated that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the starting games in any case. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
