The Australian skipper has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector the selector has stated that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series kicking off on the 21st of November in the WACA.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, aside from his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he will feature a key capacity. Hopefully it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India recently after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to make the squad for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the first Test as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches anyway. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
