The Australian skipper has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on 21 November in Perth.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the prospects of participating.
"We know that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations around that, aside from the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a major part. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand recently after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 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 make the squad for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games in any case. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
