The pace bowler has claimed 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the prospects of being involved.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. With luck it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of spinal problems, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from three Australian summers in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the first Test as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs anyway. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
