The Australian skipper has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on November 21 in Western Australia.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about his chances of participating.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations involved, not only the physical problem, but additional elements," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. Ideally it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 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 secure his spot for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged 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.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the national team for their limited-overs matches against India as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the first Test as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches anyway. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
