The pace bowler has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches kicking off on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the prospects of taking part.
"It's clear that time is getting short and there are permutations around that, aside from the physical problem, but additional elements," he commented.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he's going to play a key capacity. With luck starting in Perth. If not, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India last month after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with recurrences in multiple past seasons forcing him out of three Australian summers in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the series.
He mentioned that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against India as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and stated that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the opening match as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games anyway. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
