The Australian skipper has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches kicking off on the 21st of November in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the prospects of being involved.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations involved, not just the back issue, but further aspects," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a major part. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with setbacks in multiple past seasons causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the first Test as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the starting games regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
