The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches kicking off on November 21 in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about his chances of participating.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations at play, not just the physical problem, but other factors as well," he commented.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. With luck it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
He has a history of back injuries, with setbacks in multiple past seasons causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the contest.
The selector indicated that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and mentioned that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the initial game as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
