The Australian skipper has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series kicking off on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the likelihood of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and there are permutations involved, aside from the back issue, but further aspects," he commented.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he's going to play a key capacity. Ideally from the opening match. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the opening match as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games anyway. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for another day, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
