The Australian skipper has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest kicking off on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"We're aware that time is getting short and there are permutations involved, aside from the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he's going to play a significant role. Ideally from the opening match. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
He has a history of recurring issues, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of several home seasons in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the series.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the opener.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the first Test as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we opted to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
