The Australian skipper has taken 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief the selector has confirmed that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches kicking off on the 21st of November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the prospects of participating.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and there are permutations around that, not just his injury, but further aspects," he commented.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a significant role. With luck starting in Perth. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of three Australian summers in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "small issue and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the first Test as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
