The pace bowler has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector the selector has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the prospects of participating.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations around that, not just the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, we'll reassess."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups 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 proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the initial game as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games regardless. 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."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
