The pace bowler has claimed 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors the selector has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the prospects of taking part.
"We know that the window is narrowing and various factors at play, aside from his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.
He mentioned that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for a short period, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
