The pace bowler has taken 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on 21 November in Western Australia.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the prospects of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and various factors at play, aside from the back issue, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he's going to play a key capacity. Ideally it's the first Test. If not, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the series.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches 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 Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned 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," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
