The pace bowler has secured 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about his chances of participating.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations involved, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully starting in Perth. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the contest.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches anyway. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for a short period, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
