The Australian skipper has secured 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches set to start on November 21 in the WACA.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations involved, not just the back issue, but additional elements," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a key capacity. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and stated 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 participate for the first Test as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches in any case. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for a short period, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
