The Australian skipper has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector the selector has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches kicking off on November 21 in Western Australia.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"We're aware that time is getting short and there are permutations involved, not only the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a major part. With luck starting in Perth. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of back injuries, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the starting games anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
