The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the prospects of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, aside from the back issue, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he's going to play a key capacity. Hopefully from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India recently after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of back injuries, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of several home seasons in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and confirmed 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 participate for the first Test as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs anyway. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
