The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on 21 November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the likelihood of participating.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and various factors involved, not just his injury, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he will feature a key capacity. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of spinal problems, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the Ashes.
He mentioned that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games regardless. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for another day, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
