The pace bowler has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches set to start on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the prospects of taking part.
"We know that time is getting short and there are permutations around that, aside from the physical problem, but other factors as well," he commented.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he will feature a key capacity. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India recently after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record 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 proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the national team for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the opening match as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games in any case. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
