The pace bowler has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about his chances of being involved.
"We know that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, not only his injury, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a major part. Ideally it's the first Test. If not, we'll reassess."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India last month after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons leading to absences from three Australian summers in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the first Test as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games in any case. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
