The pace bowler has secured 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and various factors around that, not just the physical problem, but additional elements," the selector added.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a major part. With luck starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs regardless. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
