The pace bowler has taken 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the prospects of participating.
"We know that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, not only the physical problem, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a significant role. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of back injuries, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of three Australian summers in a short span.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the series.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and stated that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the initial game as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
