The pace bowler has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of being involved.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, not just his injury, but further aspects," he commented.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he's going to play a significant role. Ideally it's the first Test. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of spinal problems, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss three Australian summers in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
He mentioned that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the national team for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and confirmed that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games regardless. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
