The pace bowler has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Perth.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the prospects of participating.
"It's clear that time is getting short and various factors around that, aside from his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. Ideally starting in Perth. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from three Australian summers in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the contest.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches in any case. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
