The pace bowler has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian selection chief the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest kicking off on the 21st of November in the WACA.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about his chances of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations around that, not just the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he's going to play a key capacity. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand recently after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of three Australian summers in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
The selector indicated that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the national team for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and confirmed that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for a short period, we opted to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
