The pace bowler has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that Cummins might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest set to start on November 21 in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the likelihood of being involved.
"It's clear that time is getting short and multiple considerations around that, not just his injury, but other factors as well," he commented.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he's going to play a major part. With luck from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India recently after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of spinal problems, with recurrences in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "small issue and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games in any case. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for a short period, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
