The pace bowler has secured 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest kicking off on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about his chances of participating.
"It's clear that time is getting short and multiple considerations involved, not only his injury, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he will feature a key capacity. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand recently after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
