The pace bowler has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief the selector has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest set to start on November 21 in Western Australia.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and various factors at play, not just his injury, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he will feature a key capacity. With luck starting in Perth. If not, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from several home seasons in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the national team for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for a short period, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
