The Australian skipper has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on November 21 in Western Australia.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the likelihood of being involved.
"We know that the window is narrowing and various factors around that, not only his injury, but additional elements," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he will feature a major part. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with recurrences in multiple past seasons causing him to miss three Australian summers in four years.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and stated that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches anyway. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
