The Australian skipper has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief the selector has confirmed that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series set to start on the 21st of November in the WACA.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the prospects of being involved.
"We know that time is getting short and various factors involved, not just the back issue, but other factors as well," he commented.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a major part. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of back injuries, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the national team for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the opening match as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs regardless. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for another day, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026