The Australian skipper has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in the WACA.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about his chances of participating.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations around that, not only the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he's going to play a major part. Ideally it's the first Test. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of back injuries, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from several home seasons in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the contest.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
