The pace bowler has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief the selector has declared that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations at play, not only the physical problem, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he will feature a major part. Hopefully from the opening match. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India recently after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of back injuries, with recurrences in multiple past seasons causing him to miss three Australian summers in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches anyway. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
