The Australian skipper has claimed 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the prospects of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, not only the physical problem, but additional elements," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a major part. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, we'll adjust."
Injury History
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India last month after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against India as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
