The Australian skipper has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in the WACA.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the prospects of taking part.
"We know that the clock is ticking and various factors involved, aside from the physical problem, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. Ideally it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss three Australian summers in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the Ashes.
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 opener.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and stated that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the first Test as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
