The Australian skipper has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of taking part.
"We know that the window is narrowing and various factors around that, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he will feature a significant role. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the series.
The selector indicated that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the initial game as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
