The Australian skipper has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series set to start on 21 November in the WACA.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, not just his injury, but other factors as well," he commented.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a major part. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of recurring issues, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of three Australian summers in four years.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the opening match as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
